blistering speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "blistering speed" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to emphasize the speed of something, and can generally be used when talking about something moving quickly. For example, "He ran across the street at blistering speed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Moss's blistering speed was obvious on the Cleveland return.

The New York Times - Sports

It transmitted copy at the blistering speed of 300 bits per second.

The New York Times

He generates blistering speed on it the with an effortlessness that belies his raw strength.

The New York Times

Americanhardcore/punk was known for its blistering speed, but by '84 this waschanging.

The New York Times - Books

At his best, the dual premiership player uses his blistering speed and creativity in equal measures.

The Guardian - Sport

Because of his blistering speed, he was widely perceived as almost exclusively a deep threat.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

We are now building digital devices that can process information at blistering speeds.

The Guardian - Opinion

Britain might spend lavishly on kit that could be cheaper later, when blistering speeds might also be better appreciated.

The Economist

Both local networks connecting today's desktop PCs and the Internet's new long-haul fibre networks carry data at blistering speeds.

The Economist

Propelled by a double-bladed paddle in the hands of athletes, kayaks zip through whitewater and sea currents at blistering speeds.

The New York Times

Data piped directly from an exchange come at blistering speeds.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "blistering speed" to vividly describe something moving or progressing very quickly, especially when you want to emphasize the intensity or impressiveness of the speed. For example, "The race car sped around the track at a blistering speed".

Common error

Avoid using "blistering speed" in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable in news and general contexts, more precise or technical terms might be preferable for scientific or formal reports. For instance, instead of saying "The reaction occurred at a blistering speed", consider "The reaction exhibited a high rate of reaction".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blistering speed" functions as a noun phrase, where "blistering" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "speed". It vividly emphasizes the degree or intensity of the speed being described. Ludwig's examples show its common usage in describing fast movement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "blistering speed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe something moving with exceptional rapidity and intensity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase, with "blistering" intensifying the noun "speed". It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, where its vivid imagery helps to convey a sense of extraordinary swiftness. While generally appropriate, it should be used cautiously in highly formal or academic writing where more precise language may be preferred. Alternative phrases such as "breakneck pace" or "lightning quickness" offer similar meanings with slight variations in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extreme swiftness

Focuses on the exceptional quickness of the movement.

lightning quickness

Highlights the suddenness and rapidity, comparing it to lightning.

intense rapidity

Highlights not only the speed but also the intensity behind it.

breakneck pace

Emphasizes the danger and risk associated with the high speed.

astonishing rate

Focuses on how quickly something is happening, implying surprise.

rapid velocity

A more formal and scientific way to describe high speed.

dazzling pace

Emphasizes the impressive and almost overwhelming nature of the speed.

high-octane tempo

Implies a high-energy and forceful speed, often used in performance or activities.

remarkable celerity

A more sophisticated and less common way to describe speed, emphasizing promptness.

incredible alacrity

Implies a cheerful and willing eagerness in addition to speed.

FAQs

How can I use "blistering speed" in a sentence?

"Blistering speed" is used to describe something moving or occurring very quickly and intensely. For example, "The cheetah ran at a "blistering speed" during the hunt".

What are some alternatives to "blistering speed"?

You can use alternatives like "breakneck pace", "lightning quickness", or "rapid velocity" depending on the context.

Is "blistering speed" an appropriate phrase for formal writing?

While acceptable in general writing, "blistering speed" might be too informal for highly formal or technical contexts. Consider using more precise language, such as "high rate of reaction", in those cases.

What does "blistering" mean in the context of "blistering speed"?

In this context, "blistering" emphasizes the extreme intensity and impressiveness of the speed. It suggests that the speed is not just fast, but exceptionally so, almost to the point of being overwhelming.