at an astounding pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at an astounding pace" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is happening very quickly or at a remarkably fast rate. For example: - The new technology is advancing at an astounding pace, with new developments and breakthroughs happening almost daily. - The runners were moving at an astounding pace, leaving their competitors far behind. - The economy grew at an astounding pace, setting new records for growth and prosperity.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Government spending is growing at an astounding pace.

The New York Times

Despite these opposing views, the hedge fund industry has continued to grow at an astounding pace.

Harvard University

Genetically engineered animals created with the CRISPR/Cas system (CRISPy Critters) are being produced at an astounding pace.

Alcohol

Even before Reinhardt died, in 1967, the medium was going supernova, expanding and diversifying at an astounding pace.

The New York Times - Arts

I don't know if Roe v. Wade will be overturned in my lifetime, but the chipping away of abortion rights is occurring at an astounding pace.

The New York Times

On Saturdays and Sundays, the combined ridership has risen at an astounding pace: 141 percent, compared with 53 percent across the entire system.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

In the first 1,000 days, babies' brains form new connections at an astounding rate: up to 1,000 every single second – a pace never repeated again.

UNICEF

"We're now losing them at an astounding rate".

The New York Times

The number of cars on Beijing's streets has been multiplying at an astounding rate.

The New York Times - Science

Since the early 1950s, however, Delhi has absorbed immigrants from throughout India at an astounding rate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"We are losing coral reefs at an astounding rate," she said.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at an astounding pace", ensure the context clearly indicates what is accelerating rapidly. Provide specific details to enhance the impact.

Common error

Avoid using "at an astounding pace" for minor or commonplace events. The word "astounding" implies something truly remarkable and surprising; reserve the phrase for situations that genuinely warrant such a description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at an astounding pace" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. As illustrated by Ludwig, it emphasizes the speed or rate of the action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at an astounding pace" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize the rapid speed or rate of something's progress. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse fields, most prominently in news and media, science, and academia. While applicable in formal contexts, it should be reserved for situations genuinely warranting a descriptor of remarkable acceleration. Consider alternatives like "at a remarkable rate" or "at an incredible speed" for subtle variations in meaning. The phrase's ubiquity in authoritative sources solidifies its place as a valuable tool for expressing dynamic change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a remarkable rate

Focuses more on the numerical or measurable aspect of the increase or speed.

at an incredible speed

Emphasizes the quickness of the action or process.

at an accelerated rate

Highlights the increasing nature of the speed or growth.

at a breakneck speed

Implies a dangerously fast or reckless pace.

at a blistering pace

Suggests a very fast and intense rate of activity.

at an exponential rate

Emphasizes the accelerating and compounding nature of the growth.

at a rapid clip

Informal way of saying something is happening quickly.

at a dizzying speed

Suggests the pace is so fast it is almost overwhelming.

at a swift tempo

Focuses on a quick tempo

at a lightning pace

It is a similar expression but more metaphorical involving a comparison with lightning

FAQs

How can I use "at an astounding pace" in a sentence?

You can use "at an astounding pace" to describe anything that is increasing or progressing very quickly. For instance, "Technology is evolving "at an astounding pace"."

What are some alternatives to saying "at an astounding pace"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at a remarkable rate", "at an incredible speed", or "at a blistering pace", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "at an astounding pace" in formal writing?

Yes, "at an astounding pace" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when emphasizing the rapid development or change of a subject. However, ensure your usage aligns with the overall tone and formality of the piece.

What is the difference between "at an astounding pace" and "at a steady pace"?

"At an astounding pace" indicates a very fast, almost unbelievable rate of progress, whereas "at a steady pace" implies consistent, unvarying progress that is not particularly fast or slow. They are near antonyms.