breakneck speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breakneck speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is happening very quickly or at a dangerously fast pace. Example: "The car raced down the highway at breakneck speed, leaving a cloud of dust in its wake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These cards are exchanged at breakneck speed.

The Economist

I wouldn't say that's breakneck speed.

The New York Times - Sports

Society is evolving at breakneck speed.

The Guardian - Opinion

The food is served at breakneck speed.

The New York Times - Food

The deal was brokered with breakneck speed.

The New York Times

The plots streak along at breakneck speed.

The New York Times

Played at breakneck speed, it works.

The New York Times - Sports

The term "breakneck speed" came to mind.

The New York Times - Travel

Its merchandise and services imports are expanding at breakneck speed.

The Economist

Meanwhile, the economy kept growing, at breakneck speed.

The New Yorker

Life outside the ring was also moving at breakneck speed.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "breakneck speed" when you want to emphasize both the rapid pace and the potential risks or dangers associated with that speed.

Common error

While widely accepted, "breakneck speed" can sound informal or sensational in some formal writing. Consider alternatives like "rapid pace" or "accelerated rate" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breakneck speed" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used adverbially to modify verbs, describing the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI examples show its frequent use in contexts describing rapid processes or changes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "breakneck speed" is a common and generally correct phrase used to describe something happening very quickly, often with an implication of risk or danger. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "rapid pace" or "accelerated rate" exist, "breakneck speed" uniquely captures the sense of both speed and potential hazard. When using this phrase, consider your audience and the level of formality required, opting for more neutral terms in highly formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rapid pace

Focuses on the quickness of progress, less emphasis on potential danger.

lightning speed

Emphasizes extreme quickness and suddenness, often used for dramatic effect.

blinding speed

Highlights the difficulty in perceiving something moving so fast.

high velocity

A more technical and less emotive way to describe great speed.

accelerated rate

Emphasizes the increasing nature of the speed or progress.

swiftly

A simple adverb indicating quickness, lacking the intensity of "breakneck speed".

at full tilt

Implies maximum effort and speed, sometimes with a sense of recklessness.

at warp speed

A science fiction term implying extremely high velocity.

hell-for-leather

An informal idiom denoting reckless speed and determination.

in haste

Highlights the urgency and quickness but does not necessarily imply danger.

FAQs

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

You can use "breakneck speed" to describe something happening very quickly and possibly dangerously. For example, "The car was traveling at "breakneck speed" on the highway."

What are some alternatives to "breakneck speed"?

Alternatives include "rapid pace", "lightning speed", or "accelerated rate", depending on the context.

Is "breakneck speed" appropriate for formal writing?

While understandable, "breakneck speed" might be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider more neutral phrases like "high velocity" or "rapid acceleration".

What does "breakneck speed" imply beyond just fast speed?

"Breakneck speed" suggests not only rapid motion but also a potential for danger or recklessness due to that speed.