Thrilling: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
thril·ling
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: The adjective “thrilling” describes something that causes excitement or exhilaration due to its intensity or dramatic effect.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exciting | Captures the essence of energy and enthusiasm. | “The concert was truly exciting.” | Informal/Casual, Business |
| Exhilarating | Implies a sense of elation or joyous thrill. | “Scaling the mountain proved to be an exhilarating experience.” | Formal/Informal, Creative |
| Enticing | Suggests attraction and allure rather than sheer excitement. | “The aroma from the bakery was incredibly enticing.” | Informal/Casual, Conversational |
| Electrifying | Conveys a powerful impact or energy. | “Her speech was electrifying and captivated everyone in the room.” | Formal/Informal, Academic |
| Stomach-churning | Emphasizes intense fear or suspense. | “The roller coaster ride gave us stomach-churning moments of thrill.” | Informal/Casual, Entertainment |
Usage Notes
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Exciting: This synonym is versatile and commonly used across different contexts, from business meetings to casual conversations. It’s a go-to word when you want to convey general enthusiasm or anticipation without extreme connotations.
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Exhilarating: Often preferred in more formal settings or writing, “exhilarating” carries a sense of elation that is perfect for describing activities with intense emotional engagement—like travel experiences or adventurous sports.
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Enticing: More focused on the allure and charm aspect than outright excitement, “enticing” suits contexts where you want to highlight the attractive nature of something without suggesting fear or high adrenaline.
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Electrifying: This term is powerful for describing performances or speeches that are not only exciting but have a dynamic impact. It’s particularly effective in creative writing and formal presentations.
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Stomach-churning: Best reserved for situations where thrills involve suspense or even terror, such as horror movies or extreme sports. Its usage often conveys more intense emotional responses compared to its synonyms.
Common Pitfalls
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Confusing “thrilling” with “terrifying”: While both can imply high levels of excitement, “terrifying” leans towards fear and apprehension. It’s important to choose a synonym that accurately reflects the positive or negative aspect of the experience.
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Misapplying intensity: Not all synonyms convey the same level of thrill. For instance, “enticing” often lacks the adrenaline-fueled connotation of “stomach-churning.”
Final Recap
The word “thrilling” and its synonyms encompass a spectrum from simple excitement (“exciting”) to intense emotional highs (“exhilarating”). The choice among these depends on context: whether you’re discussing business achievements, describing a captivating story, or detailing an adrenaline-packed adventure. Understanding the nuances of each synonym can enrich your vocabulary and enhance communication across different scenarios.
To master these terms, try incorporating them into your writing exercises or conversations about experiences that evoke excitement—be it a recent movie, book, or event—and see which word fits best. This practice will deepen your understanding of their distinct meanings and applications.