Sensational: Definition and Part of Speech
The word sensational primarily functions as an adjective, although it can also take a verbal form (to sensationalize) or exist as a noun in certain contexts (e.g., “a sensation”). As an adjective, it describes something that causes great public interest and excitement, often because it is shocking or dramatic. The term can apply to news stories, events, performances, or products that stand out due to their extraordinary nature.
Core Synonyms
Below are some main synonyms of sensational, along with brief definitions, example sentences, and the style or register in which they’re typically used:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Extraordinary | Beyond ordinary, exceptional | The performance was extraordinary, drawing crowds from afar. | Formal/Informal, Academic |
| Scandalous | Shocking in a negative or morally offensive way | The celebrity’s scandalous behavior dominated headlines for weeks. | Informal/Serious |
| Thrilling | Causing excitement and pleasure | Watching the thrilling finale of the show left me on the edge of my seat. | Casual/Creative |
| Astounding | Inspiring wonder or awe | The scientist’s findings were astounding, challenging previous theories. | Academic/Formal |
Usage Notes
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Extraordinary: Often used in contexts where something stands out due to its exceptional nature rather than shock value alone. Suitable for both formal and casual settings.
Business: “The company achieved extraordinary growth this quarter.”
Casual: “Her singing was just extraordinary last night!”
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Scandalous: Best utilized when describing something that provokes moral outrage or controversy, often negative in connotation.
Formal/Informal: “The scandalous allegations against the politician caused a media frenzy.”
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Thrilling: A popular choice for describing exciting and emotionally engaging experiences. Often used in creative writing to convey enjoyment and suspense.
Creative/Casual: “The book was thrilling from start to finish.”
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Astounding: Ideal for contexts requiring emphasis on awe or surprise, often seen in academic writing or formal reports.
Academic/Formal: “The team’s astounding discovery could revolutionize the field.”
Common Pitfalls
One common mistake is using sensational interchangeably with all synonyms without considering their nuances. For instance, while something can be both sensational and extraordinary, extraordinary lacks the connotation of being specifically media-driven or shock-based.
Another confusion might arise between scandalous and other shocking terms. It’s important to remember that scandalous implies a moral or ethical dimension that words like thrilling or astounding do not carry.
Final Recap
In summary, while sensational, extraordinary, scandalous, thrilling, and astounding share similarities in evoking strong reactions, they each have distinct connotations. Understanding these nuances enhances effective communication across various contexts, from casual conversations to formal presentations.
To master the use of sensational and its synonyms, practice incorporating them into different sentence structures or discussions. Try crafting your own examples tailored to specific scenarios—be it describing an exciting event, a controversial news story, or an awe-inspiring scientific breakthrough.