celestial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "celestial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe anything related to the sky or outer space, often in a poetic or metaphorical context. Example: "The celestial bodies twinkled brightly against the dark night sky, captivating all who gazed upward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It is handed down in absentia, and unless Earth has an extradition treaty with the 357-room celestial palace in which Tony Blair's idiosyncratic brand of faith presumably leads him to imagine he will spend eternity, then the former prime minister is safe to continue telling every second interviewer that "history will judge me", or that he is "prepared to be judged by history".

The Guardian - Opinion

Writing in his journal about the strange celestial events of 13 November 1833, Prophet Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church, described how he was awakened at 4am by a fellow clergyman "calling me to arise and behold the signs in the heavens".

The Guardian - Arts

He told fellow members he had heard celestial voices and seen visions of divine paintings.

The Guardian - Books

A massive and unexpectedly seductive 26-foot frog named "Tongari-Kun" whose head seemed as if it were about to pierce the celestial fresco that spans the ceiling of the Hercules Salon.

The Economist

A better waterworks Allo, allo Zapping mosquitoes, and corruption Expanding care Everlasting light Ideas coming down the track Speed is the new stealth In praise of celestial mechanics Teaching old microphones new tricks Harnessing human computation ReprintsThat natural microphone, the human ear, is finely attuned to picking up certain characteristics in a person's voice.

The Economist

He denounced Kotler in an article in Izvestia, a Russian newspaper, and Kotler was sent to prison for 13 years.Both men seek a kind of redemption when they meet in Yalta, apparently by chance, although more powerful, celestial forces may be at play.

The Economist

But space law scholars debate whether the Treaty actually implicitly prohibits, or allows, private ownership on celestial bodies.Some commercial companies, such as Bigelow Aerospace, are hoping to use the ambiguity of the treaty's language to their advantage.

The Economist

A better waterworks Allo, allo Zapping mosquitoes, and corruption Expanding care Everlasting light Ideas coming down the track Speed is the new stealth In praise of celestial mechanics Teaching old microphones new tricks Harnessing human computation Reprints Related topics United States United Nations Industrials Sector Transport and logistics IndustriesInsurance is another consideration.

The Economist

For instance, it is coastal Republican governors such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, George Pataki and Mitt Romney who are leading the way on placing mandatory curbs on carbon emissions from cars and power plants.There is also now a celestial voice in energy policy.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mr Obama's once-celestial approval ratings are about where George Bush's were at this stage in his awful presidency.

The Economist

That notion has now been proved wrong as the celestial-navigation club welcomes its latest member: the humble dung beetle.Life in the world of dung beetles is fiercely competitive.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "celestial" to evoke a sense of wonder, awe, or something beyond earthly bounds, particularly when discussing astronomical phenomena, spiritual concepts, or artistic creations.

Common error

Avoid using "celestial" in everyday situations where simpler alternatives like "sky", "space", or "heavenly" would be more appropriate. Reserve it for situations where its elevated tone is warranted.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "celestial" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe things related to the sky, space, or heaven. Ludwig shows frequent use in describing astronomical events and objects. The word can also function as a noun, although this is less common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "celestial" functions primarily as an adjective, denoting a connection to the sky, space, or a divine realm. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage, especially in news and media contexts, where it adds a sense of awe and grandeur. While generally neutral to formal, its impact is strongest when describing astronomical phenomena, spiritual concepts, or artistic creations. It's crucial to avoid overuse in mundane contexts, reserving it for situations that genuinely warrant its elevated tone. Related terms include "heavenly", "astral", and "cosmic", each offering nuanced connotations that may better suit specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heavenly

Implies a connection to heaven or a divine realm, often used in a religious context.

astral

Relates to the stars or the spirit world, often used in astrology or spiritual contexts.

cosmic

Refers to the universe as a whole, emphasizing vastness and scale.

ethereal

Suggests something delicate, light, and otherworldly, often implying beauty and grace.

supernal

Indicates something of the highest heaven or celestial sphere, suggesting extreme elevation and purity.

divine

Relates to a god or gods, implying sacredness and supreme excellence.

empyrean

Refers to the sky or heavens, especially the highest reaches, suggesting a place of pure light and celestial fire.

outer space

A more literal description referring to the region beyond Earth's atmosphere.

sidereal

Related to the stars or constellations, often used in astronomical contexts.

paradisaical

Describes a state or place resembling paradise, evoking ultimate bliss and perfection.

FAQs

How can I use "celestial" in a sentence?

You can use "celestial" to describe things related to the sky or space, such as "celestial bodies" or "celestial navigation". It can also describe something divine or heavenly.

What words are similar to "celestial"?

Synonyms for "celestial" include "heavenly", "divine", "spiritual", and "ethereal". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "celestial" and "heavenly"?

"Celestial" generally refers to the sky or outer space, while "heavenly" usually implies a connection to heaven or a divine power. Although they can be used interchangeably in some contexts, "heavenly" carries a stronger religious connotation.

Is it correct to use "celestial" to describe something beautiful?

Yes, you can use "celestial" to describe something beautiful, particularly if it evokes a sense of otherworldliness or divine perfection. For example, you might describe a stunning sunset as having a "celestial glow".