at a staggering rate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a staggering rate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is happening very quickly or at an unexpectedly high speed. Example: "The population of the city is growing at a staggering rate, leading to increased demand for housing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

AOL had been losing members at a staggering rate, with 300,000 people a month canceling their AOL accounts as they switched to high-speed Internet from their cable and phone companies.

The New York Times - Tech

Technology is changing at a staggering rate.

The Guardian

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing at a staggering rate.

Stanford University

Human brains develop at a staggering rate during the first several years of life.

Princeton University

With more confidence, I think these cases will continue to be reported at a staggering rate".

The New York Times

It is also hard to forget when players continue getting hurt at a staggering rate.

The New York Times - Sports

Species are now being wiped off the planet at a staggering rate.

The Guardian

Investors have poured money into the company at a staggering rate.

The New York Times

But studies show that new innovations fail at a staggering rate.

Harvard Business Review

Mr. Macklowe was already well represented in the Midtown market, where rents were rising at a staggering rate.

The New York Times

The country is now ageing at a staggering rate, with a shrinking workforce supporting a rocketing number of dependants.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at a staggering rate", consider providing specific data or context to illustrate the magnitude of the rate. This helps to reinforce the impact and credibility of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "at a staggering rate" in very casual or informal writing. While the phrase is acceptable, its intensity can sound out of place in relaxed conversations or informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a staggering rate" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the speed or pace at which an action is occurring. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates that something is happening very quickly or at an unexpectedly high speed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a staggering rate" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize the rapid or unexpectedly high speed of a process or change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, it is important to consider the intensity of the phrase and its appropriateness in informal settings. Remember to use data or context to support the claim of a "staggering rate" to bolster the credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at an exponential rate

Emphasizes the accelerating nature of the rate, implying growth that becomes faster over time.

at an astronomical rate

Highlights the immense scale of the rate, suggesting something is increasing to a very large degree.

at a phenomenal pace

Focuses on the speed of the change, portraying it as remarkably fast.

at a breakneck speed

Implies the rate is so fast it's potentially dangerous or reckless.

at an unprecedented rate

Suggests the rate is unmatched by anything in the past, highlighting its uniqueness.

at a meteoric pace

Compares the speed to that of a meteor, emphasizing sudden and rapid increase.

at a lightning speed

Relates the speed to lightning, emphasizing the sudden and extremely quick nature of the process.

at an accelerating pace

Focuses specifically on the fact that the rate is increasing over time.

at a rapid clip

Uses a more informal term ('clip') to describe a quick pace or rate.

at a breathtaking velocity

Emphasizes the impressive speed and impact of the rate of change.

FAQs

How can I use "at a staggering rate" in a sentence?

You can use "at a staggering rate" to describe something that is increasing or changing very quickly. For example, "The cost of living in the city is rising "at a staggering rate"."

What are some alternatives to "at a staggering rate"?

Alternatives include "at an exponential rate", "at an astronomical rate", or "at a phenomenal pace". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "at a staggering rate" in formal writing?

Yes, "at a staggering rate" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when you want to emphasize the significant speed or magnitude of a change. However, ensure the tone of your writing supports such emphasis.

What's the difference between "at a staggering rate" and "at a rapid rate"?

"At a staggering rate" implies a sense of surprise or disbelief due to the speed or magnitude of the change, whereas "at a rapid rate" simply indicates that something is happening quickly. "Staggering" adds a stronger emotional impact.