The word striking is commonly used in the English language to describe something that stands out or attracts attention. It can refer to appearance, actions, or effects that are remarkable, impressive, or even shocking.
This topic will explore the meaning of striking, its various uses in different contexts, and examples that help clarify its significance in everyday life.
Definition of Striking
General Meaning
The word striking is an adjective that means something is visually or emotionally impactful. It is used to describe people, objects, situations, or events that catch attention due to their distinctive qualities.
Common Definitions of Striking:
✔ Visually Impressive – Something that looks exceptionally beautiful or unique.
✔ Unusual or Surprising – An event or fact that is unexpected or extraordinary.
✔ Hitting or Impact – Related to physical force or labor strikes.
Examples in Sentences:
✔ “She has striking blue eyes that make her stand out in a crowd.”
✔ “The most striking difference between the two paintings is the color scheme.”
✔ “The workers went on a striking protest to demand better wages.”
Different Uses of the Word “Striking”
1. Striking as “Visually Impressive”
One of the most common uses of striking is to describe a person or object that is visually appealing or attention-grabbing.
✔ Striking Beauty – When someone has outstanding physical features.
✔ Striking Colors – A color that is vivid, bold, or highly noticeable.
✔ Striking Architecture – A building with a unique or impressive design.
Examples:
✔ “The striking sunset painted the sky with shades of red and orange.”
✔ “Her striking outfit turned heads at the party.”
2. Striking as “Unusual or Surprising”
The word can also mean something unexpected or remarkable, especially in terms of facts or events.
✔ Striking Similarities – When two things are surprisingly alike.
✔ Striking Differences – When two things have sharp contrasts.
✔ Striking News – Information that is shocking or unexpected.
Examples:
✔ “There is a striking contrast between the rich and the poor in this city.”
✔ “It is striking how much the twins look alike despite growing up apart.”
3. Striking in Relation to Physical Impact
The word striking is also connected to hitting or making an impact, whether physically or metaphorically.
✔ Striking a Match – The action of igniting a matchstick.
✔ Striking a Chord – An emotional impact caused by a statement or action.
✔ Striking a Blow – Causing harm or making a strong statement.
Examples:
✔ “He lit a candle by striking a match in the dark room.”
✔ “Her speech about equality struck a chord with many people.”
4. Striking in the Context of Labor Strikes
The word is also used in labor movements, referring to workers who refuse to work as a form of protest.
✔ Striking Workers – Employees who go on strike to demand better conditions.
✔ Striking for Rights – A protest to secure fair wages or benefits.
Examples:
✔ “The factory workers are striking for higher wages and better safety conditions.”
✔ “A nationwide striking protest disrupted transportation services.”
Why Is the Word “Striking” Important?
✔ It is a versatile word that can describe appearances, actions, or emotions.
✔ It helps emphasize the significance of something remarkable.
✔ It is commonly used in literature, media, and daily conversation.
The word striking is used in many different contexts, from describing beauty and uniqueness to expressing surprise or impact. It also applies to physical actions and labor protests, making it a powerful and flexible word in English.
Understanding how to use striking correctly allows you to express observations more vividly and describe things that truly stand out in an impressive way.