a smashing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a smashing" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as an informal expression to describe something that is excellent or impressive. Example: "The party last night was a smashing success, with everyone enjoying themselves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That was a smashing summer.

The New York Times

"He's had a smashing season.

Independent

It was a smashing success.

Columbia University

He's a smashing guy.

The Guardian - Sport

Jacob's a smashing lad.

The Guardian - Sport

It was a smashing programme".

The Guardian

It was a smashing exit.

The New York Times - Sports

His innovative approach was a smashing success.

Harvard Business Review

This is far from a smashing success.

MIT Technology Review

The play was a smashing success.

The New York Times

But he is a smashing lad.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a smashing" to add a touch of British English informal approval to your writing. It works well when describing successes, enjoyable events, or admirable people.

Common error

Avoid using "a smashing" in highly formal or academic writing. While it can add character, it may be perceived as unprofessional. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "excellent" or "outstanding" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a smashing" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to express approval or indicate excellence. Ludwig confirms this through its examples, showcasing its use to describe successes, people, and events in a positive light.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a smashing" is an adjective phrase used to express approval and indicate excellence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in informal contexts, particularly within news and media, and academia. While versatile, it's best to avoid using "a smashing" in highly formal settings, opting for more neutral alternatives. Consider the context to ensure your writing is both expressive and appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an excellent

A more general and formal term for high quality or success.

an outstanding

Similar to excellent, but suggests standing out from the rest.

a resounding

Emphasizes the completeness and decisiveness of the success.

a tremendous

Highlights the impressive scale or impact of something.

a first-rate

Indicates top quality or performance.

a remarkable

Focuses on the unusual or noteworthy nature of the achievement.

a brilliant

Emphasizes intelligence, skill, or innovation.

a stunning

Implies beauty or impressiveness, often unexpectedly.

a wonderful

Suggests a delightful or pleasing experience.

a significant

Focuses on the importance or consequence of the event or achievement.

FAQs

How can I use "a smashing" in a sentence?

You can use "a smashing" to describe something that is excellent or very successful, such as, "The party was "a smashing" success" or "He's "a smashing" guy".

What does "a smashing" mean?

"A smashing" is an informal British English expression that means something is excellent, wonderful, or very successful.

What can I say instead of "a smashing"?

Alternatives to "a smashing" include "excellent", "outstanding", or "remarkable depending on the context".

Is "a smashing" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a smashing" is generally considered informal. For formal writing, it's better to use more neutral terms like "excellent" or "outstanding".