is astronomical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is astronomical" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is extremely large, vast, or beyond comprehension, often in a figurative sense. Example: "The cost of the new project is astronomical, far exceeding our initial budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Their growth is astronomical.

The New York Times - Sports

And the cost to society is astronomical".

The New York Times - Health

"The difference is astronomical," she said.

The New York Times

The rebounding number is astronomical for a shooting guard.

The New York Times - Sports

The cost of running so many galleries, dealers say, is astronomical, and London is exceptionally expensive.

The New York Times - Arts

"The impact here is astronomical," said Mr. Lessin, whose start-up was called Drop.io.

The New York Times - Tech

When they turn a plus score into a minus, the loss is astronomical.

The New York Times - Arts

The cost of private schools in New York City is astronomical.

The Guardian

The price tag, however, is astronomical: as much as $94,500.

The Guardian

"The number of bars and clubs going in is astronomical," Mr. Mulkins said.

The New York Times

And the cost is astronomical — $98,000 a year, Barry said.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is astronomical", ensure the context clearly implies a very large quantity or degree. Avoid overuse, as it can diminish the impact. Consider alternatives like "is extremely high" or "is incredibly vast" for variety.

Common error

Avoid using "is astronomical" to describe moderately large quantities. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the magnitude is truly extraordinary. For lesser amounts, opt for less hyperbolic language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is astronomical" functions as a predicative adjective, modifying a noun by attributing to it the quality of being extremely large or significant. Ludwig shows that it's often used to describe quantities, costs, or probabilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is astronomical" is a commonly used expression to denote something exceptionally large, high, or significant. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it's crucial to reserve it for situations where the magnitude truly warrants such emphasis, and consider alternatives like "is extremely high" or "reaches unprecedented levels" for variety or greater formality. Be mindful of overusing it to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is extremely high

Focuses on the high degree or level of something, rather than vastness.

is exceedingly large

Emphasizes the extensive size or scope, less figurative.

is incredibly vast

Highlights the immense scale or extent of something.

is remarkably huge

Conveys a sense of unusual bigness or magnitude.

is extraordinarily great

Stresses the exceptional or uncommon nature of something's magnitude.

is unbelievably immense

Highlights the seemingly impossible scale or extent.

is staggeringly large

Indicates a size that is so great it causes one to feel overwhelmed.

is prohibitively expensive

Specifically refers to a cost that is so high it prevents purchase or action.

is off the charts

An idiom expressing something exceeding normal limits or expectations.

reaches unprecedented levels

Suggests a rise to heights never before seen or experienced.

FAQs

How can I use "is astronomical" in a sentence?

You can use "is astronomical" to emphasize that something is extremely large, high, or significant. For example, "The cost of the project is astronomical" or "The chances of that happening are astronomical".

What can I say instead of "is astronomical"?

You can use alternatives like "is extremely high", "is incredibly vast", or "is off the charts" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is astronomical"?

Use "is astronomical" when you want to convey that something is of an exceptionally large magnitude or degree, surpassing normal expectations. It's suitable for costs, numbers, or probabilities that are significantly high.

Is "is astronomical" formal or informal language?

"Is astronomical" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally more impactful in less formal settings. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "reaches unprecedented levels" for a more subdued tone.