breakneck pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breakneck pace" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a very fast or rapid speed, often in the context of work, progress, or movement. Example: "The team worked at a breakneck pace to meet the project deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A breakneck pace had been set.

The New York Times - Sports

Others were added at a breakneck pace.

The New York Times

India is developing at a breakneck pace.

The Guardian

But Facebook is growing at a breakneck pace.

The New York Times

And that overhaul isn't exactly proceeding at a breakneck pace.

The New York Times

In Timothy Draper's world, change occurs at a breakneck pace.

The New York Times

Wow - did the show always proceed at this breakneck pace?

The Guardian

Eighteen holes of golf at a breakneck pace.

The New York Times

Eyre directs Eugene O'Neill's enormous 1942 play at breakneck pace.

The Guardian

And even now Mr. Beirne defends Webvan's breakneck pace.

The New York Times

It's really exciting to take on a program that's been growing at such a breakneck pace.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "breakneck pace", consider the context to ensure the implication of potential danger or recklessness is appropriate. It is particularly effective when emphasizing the risks associated with speed.

Common error

While "breakneck pace" is widely understood, it can sound informal in certain professional or academic settings. Opt for alternatives like "rapid speed" or "accelerated tempo" for a more neutral tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breakneck pace" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier to describe the speed or manner in which something is done. Ludwig's examples show it commonly modifies verbs like "grow", "develop", or "proceed", indicating the quickness of the action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "breakneck pace" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes something happening very quickly, often with an implied risk. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used across various sources, particularly in news and media. While effective for emphasizing speed and intensity, remember to consider the context and opt for more formal alternatives like "rapid speed" or "accelerated tempo" in professional or academic settings. Be aware of the potential negative connotations associated with the phrase, and use it judiciously to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rapid speed

Focuses on the swiftness of movement or progress, without necessarily implying danger or recklessness.

blistering pace

Highlights the intensity and impressiveness of the speed, often used in competitive contexts.

frenetic rate

Emphasizes the chaotic and hurried nature of the speed, suggesting a lack of control.

lightning speed

Compares the speed to that of lightning, emphasizing its suddenness and extreme quickness.

swift momentum

Implies a rapid increase in activity or progress, often in a measured or rhythmic sense.

accelerated tempo

Suggests a rapid increase in activity or progress, often in a measured or rhythmic sense.

high-velocity

Implies a great force or intensity behind the speed, often used in technical or scientific contexts.

rapid clip

Describes something that happened quickly.

whirlwind fashion

Describes something happening quickly and intensely, like a whirlwind.

extremely fast

Simple way to say something goes fast.

FAQs

What does "breakneck pace" mean?

The phrase "breakneck pace" refers to a very fast speed, often suggesting a reckless or dangerous rate of progress. It implies that things are happening so quickly that there's a risk of something going wrong.

How can I use "breakneck pace" in a sentence?

You might say, "The company expanded at a "breakneck pace", opening new stores every week," or "Research progressed at a "breakneck pace" during the war years."

What can I say instead of "breakneck pace"?

You can use alternatives like "rapid speed", "frenetic rate", or "blistering pace", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "breakneck pace" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "breakneck pace" may be perceived as somewhat informal. In highly formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "rapid speed" or "accelerated tempo" to maintain a more neutral and professional tone.