as flying as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as flying as" is not a standard expression in written English and may be confusing without context.
It could be used in a creative or poetic context to compare something to the act of flying, but it is not commonly used in everyday language. Example: "She felt as flying as a bird soaring through the sky, free and unburdened."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In this respect, train travel on commuter routes has, alas, gone the same way as flying, as I am reminded on the two-hour TGV ride from Calais to Paris.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

You have to consider changing weather, fluctuating temperature, mud, terrible toilets, hiding booze and, of course, looking as fly as is humanly possibly after three sleep-deprived days in a field.

Vice

XCOR could begin flying as soon as 2013.

The New York Times - Science

"We were flying as high as you can fly, making a ton of money, we were at our peak.

The New York Times

The jokes are flying as fast as the snow is forecast to fall.

The New York Times

I put more inches on than she will take, and then fly her as near as I know to how she should be flown, only flying as crazy as really good pilots fly crazy sometimes.

The New Yorker

We'll keep flying as long as we have customers.

Huffington Post

We have an obligation to make flying as safe as humanly possible.

Huffington Post

From her "uproar -inducing display of those beauproar -inducingiceps to her laidisplaylayed hairstyles, there's nofquesthosethat Michelle Obeautifullyfly as firstonedies get.

Huffington Post

The act of swimming seemed as unattainable as flying.

The New York Times

That driving can release twice as much carbon as flying?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more conventional expressions like "as free as a bird" or "soaring like an eagle" to convey the intended meaning clearly. Avoid literal interpretations unless creating a very specific poetic effect.

Common error

Avoid using "as flying as" in contexts where a metaphorical comparison to flight isn't relevant or clear. Ensure the comparison logically relates to the qualities of actual flight (speed, freedom, height) to prevent miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as flying as" primarily functions as an attempt to create a comparative adjective phrase. However, due to its non-standard usage, it lacks a clear grammatical function and may not effectively convey the intended comparison. Ludwig AI indicates that it's not a standard expression.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as flying as" is a non-standard expression that attempts to draw a comparison to the act of flying. According to Ludwig AI, it's not considered standard English, and its meaning is heavily reliant on context. Grammatically, it's awkward, and its use is discouraged in formal settings. Instead, consider using more established phrases like "as free as a bird" or "soaring like an eagle" to effectively convey the desired qualities of flight. Due to its limited use and lack of clear meaning, it's best to opt for clearer and more conventional alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as free as a bird

Emphasizes freedom and unrestrained movement, similar to the feeling of flight.

soaring like an eagle

Highlights the majestic and powerful aspect of flying.

gliding through the air

Focuses on smooth and effortless movement in the air.

high as a kite

Suggests being elevated or elated, metaphorically similar to flying high.

light as a feather

Emphasizes the lightness and ease associated with flight.

floating on air

Describes a feeling of weightlessness and ease, akin to floating while flying.

swift as a falcon

Highlights the speed and agility associated with flying.

agile as a hummingbird

Focuses on the nimbleness and precision of movement in flight.

rapidly ascending

Describes the action of moving upwards quickly, like an aircraft taking off.

flying high

A more common idiom that suggests success or elation, metaphorically related to flying.

FAQs

What does "as flying as" mean?

The phrase "as flying as" isn't a standard English expression and lacks a clearly defined meaning. Its interpretation depends heavily on context, potentially suggesting freedom, speed, or height associated with flight. Consider using more common alternatives for clarity.

What can I say instead of "as flying as"?

Depending on the intended meaning, you can use alternatives like "as free as a bird", "soaring like an eagle", or "gliding through the air". Each conveys a slightly different aspect of flight.

Is "as flying as" grammatically correct?

While not strictly ungrammatical, "as flying as" is an unconventional phrase. It deviates from common comparative structures and may sound awkward or unclear to native English speakers. Prefer standard idioms or rephrase for better comprehension.

How can I use comparisons effectively in writing?

Effective comparisons rely on clarity and relevance. Ensure the comparison enhances the reader's understanding and avoids confusion. Choose familiar and easily understood points of reference to make the comparison impactful. For example, instead of using "as flying as", you may find that simply using flying on its own adds impact to your sentence.