defying gravity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defying gravity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing overcoming limitations or challenges, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "In her performance, she seemed to be defying gravity, moving with an elegance that left the audience in awe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's defying gravity," she commented.

Independent

The lucky winner: "Defying Gravity," from "Wicked".

The New York Times - Arts

How are you defying gravity this way?

The New York Times

But defying gravity was Hughes's strength tonight.

The New York Times - Sports

"Defying gravity becomes a lot harder.

The Guardian - Business

Iron ore, though, has kept defying gravity.

The New York Times

"It is very uplifting as it's all about defying gravity".

Independent

Using affordability metrics, they appear to be defying gravity.

The Economist

I am free, defying gravity, breaking the rules.

The New York Times

UNION COUNTY COLLEGE THEATER PROJECT "Defying Gravity," by Jane Anderson.

The New York Times

Elphaba's signature song, "Defying Gravity," closed the concert.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defying gravity" to describe situations where something seems to overcome natural limitations or expectations. It works well in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "defying gravity" solely for situations where something is simply difficult. It's best suited when the situation also seems to contradict what is normally possible or expected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defying gravity" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe an action or state that seems to overcome or contradict the natural force of gravity or other expected limitations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defying gravity" is a verb phrase that is considered grammatically correct and highly usable, according to Ludwig AI. Its function is to describe something overcoming natural limitations or expectations, often metaphorically. The phrase is very common in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Wiki sources and its register is generally neutral. Key alternatives include "overcoming limitations" and "transcending boundaries". When using the phrase, ensure it reflects a genuine sense of overcoming what is normally possible, and not merely something difficult. The phrase appears frequently in authoritative sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcoming limitations

Focuses on the act of surpassing restrictions, rather than the specific concept of gravity.

transcending boundaries

Emphasizes exceeding established limits or borders, often in a metaphorical sense.

rising above challenges

Highlights the act of overcoming difficult situations or problems.

breaking the mold

Implies departing from established norms or conventions.

going against the grain

Suggests acting in opposition to prevailing trends or opinions.

exceeding expectations

Focuses on surpassing what is anticipated or predicted.

pushing the envelope

Implies extending the limits of what is possible or acceptable.

challenging the norm

Highlights questioning or contesting established standards.

bucking the trend

Suggests resisting or going against a prevailing tendency.

flying high

Metaphorically represents achieving great success or exceeding normal limits, akin to overcoming gravity's pull.

FAQs

How can I use "defying gravity" in a sentence?

You can use "defying gravity" to describe situations where something overcomes natural limitations or expectations, as in, "The dancer's movements were so graceful, she seemed to be "defying gravity"".

What is a good alternative to "defying gravity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "overcoming limitations", "transcending boundaries", or "rising above challenges", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is "defying gravity" metaphorically?

Yes, "defying gravity" is commonly used metaphorically to describe situations where something seems to overcome significant obstacles or limitations that would normally prevent success or progress.

In what contexts is "defying gravity" most appropriately used?

"Defying gravity" can be used in various contexts, but it is particularly effective in describing athletic achievements, artistic performances, or business ventures that exhibit exceptional skill or resilience and can also be used in the news media.