Which one is correct?
"staggering" or "startling"?

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staggering

The word 'staggering' is correct and commonly used in English to describe something astonishingly large or impressive.

Use 'staggering' to describe something that is remarkably large, impressive, or overwhelming. It is often used to emphasize the magnitude or scale of something.

Examples:

  • The company reported a staggering increase in profits.
  • The amount of food wasted each year is staggering.
  • The beauty of the landscape was truly staggering.

Alternatives:

  • astonishing
  • impressive
  • overwhelming
  • remarkable
  • astounding

startling

The word 'startling' is correct and commonly used in English to describe something surprising or shocking.

Use 'startling' to describe something that causes surprise or shock. It is often used to express a sudden or unexpected event or revelation.

Examples:

  • The sudden noise was startling.
  • The results of the experiment were startlingly different from what we expected.
  • Her startling confession left everyone speechless.

Alternatives:

  • surprising
  • shocking
  • astonishing
  • unexpected
  • jolting
Both 'startling' and 'staggering' are correct English words, but they have different meanings and usage. 'Startling' is used to describe something surprising or shocking, while 'staggering' is used to indicate something astonishingly large or impressive. They are not interchangeable as they convey different ideas.

Last Updated: March 28, 2024

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