almost defies comment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost defies comment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, statement, or piece of art that is so extraordinary, absurd, or striking that it leaves one speechless or without a clear response. Example: "The performance was so breathtaking that it almost defies comment; words simply cannot capture its beauty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This almost defies comment, but not quite.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sometimes an article is written that is SO silly it defies comment.

Yale University

The case of Philip Giordano of Waterbury is so shocking it defies comment.

The New York Times

It almost defies belief.

The New York Times

It almost defies credibility.

The New York Times - Sports

That almost defies intervention.

The Guardian - Opinion

The plot almost defies summary.

The Guardian - Books

The plot almost defies description.

The Guardian

To her, Virginia Beach almost defies description.

The New York Times - Magazine

The sheer scale of the disaster almost defies comprehension.

The New York Times

Still, our local cascade of gubernatorial catastrophe almost defies belief.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "almost defies comment" when you want to express that a situation, event, or statement is so remarkable, shocking, or perplexing that it's difficult to find the right words to describe it. It often implies a sense of awe, disbelief, or outrage.

Common error

Avoid using "almost defies comment" for commonplace or slightly unusual events. This phrase is best reserved for truly exceptional circumstances where standard descriptive language falls short.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost defies comment" functions as an intensifier, emphasizing the extreme nature of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It serves to underscore the speaker's or writer's inability to adequately express their reaction or description due to the extraordinary nature of the subject.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "almost defies comment" is a phrase used to express that something is so extraordinary or shocking that it's difficult to describe. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and usable. It is most commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While effective for emphasizing the exceptional nature of a subject, it should be reserved for appropriate situations to avoid overuse. Related phrases include ""is beyond words"" and ""beggars description"", which offer similar ways to convey astonishment or disbelief.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beggars description

This phrase implies that something is so extraordinary that it cannot be adequately described.

is beyond words

Indicates that something is too great or profound to be expressed through language.

defies explanation

Highlights the inexplicable nature of something, suggesting it cannot be rationally understood.

is simply unbelievable

Emphasizes the incredulity inspired by something, suggesting it's hard to accept as true.

leaves one speechless

Focuses on the effect something has on an observer, rendering them unable to speak.

is hard to fathom

Suggests that something is difficult to understand or comprehend fully.

staggers the imagination

Indicates that something is so impressive or shocking that it overwhelms one's ability to imagine.

is virtually indescribable

Emphasizes the near impossibility of putting something into words.

exceeds comprehension

Implies that something is beyond the limits of what can be understood.

is difficult to grasp

Highlights the challenge in understanding something, suggesting it's not easily understood.

FAQs

What does "almost defies comment" mean?

It means something is so extraordinary, shocking, or unusual that it's difficult to find appropriate words to describe it. It suggests a situation that is beyond easy explanation or reaction.

How can I use "almost defies comment" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe events, actions, or situations. For example: "The politician's statement was so outrageous it "beggars description"/ "is beyond words"/ "almost defies comment".

What are some alternatives to "almost defies comment"?

Alternatives include "is beyond words", "defies explanation", "is simply unbelievable", or "leaves one speechless". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "almost defies comment"?

It's appropriate when the subject is truly exceptional and evokes a sense of disbelief or speechlessness. Avoid using it for ordinary or slightly unusual situations.