is highly addictive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is highly addictive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that causes a strong dependence or craving, often in the context of substances or activities. Example: "Many people are unaware that excessive gaming is highly addictive and can lead to negative consequences in their lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Marijuana is highly addictive.

The Guardian

Sugar is highly addictive, highly rewarding and incredibly accessible, but it's not cocaine.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is highly addictive and typically prescribed in small amounts under strict control.

The New York Times

It seems many Europeans need to be reminded that cocaine is highly addictive and harmful.

The Guardian - Opinion

For, as Scheherazade had said, sneaking into other people's homes is highly addictive.

The New Yorker

9. Tobacco A stimulant that is highly addictive due to its nicotine content.

The Guardian

The tobacco habit is highly addictive and deadly, so government could decide to make it illegal.

The Guardian - Opinion

The drug is highly addictive and withdrawal symptoms include blurred vision, muscle pain and seizures.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's highly addictive.

Princeton University

"It will be highly addictive".

The New York Times - Tech

"All the available evidence suggests these machines are highly addictive.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is highly addictive", specify the substance or activity to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Nicotine is highly addictive" is clearer than just saying "It is highly addictive."

Common error

Avoid using "is highly addictive" as a scare tactic without providing evidence or context. Overstating the addictive potential can undermine your credibility. Always back up your claims with credible sources or specific examples.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is highly addictive" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the characteristic of a noun (substance, activity, etc.) as having a high potential for causing addiction. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is highly addictive" is a grammatically sound and very commonly used expression that serves to warn or inform about the potential for dependence on a substance or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used correctly and effectively across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, it's best to specify the subject and avoid overgeneralization to maintain clarity and credibility. Consider alternatives like "is extremely habit-forming" or "creates a strong dependency" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is extremely habit-forming

Emphasizes the habit-forming aspect more strongly.

is powerfully habit-forming

Highlights the power and intensity of the habit formation.

is intensely habit-forming

Focuses on the intensity of the addictive potential.

is deeply habit-forming

Suggests the addiction is ingrained or difficult to break.

is severely habit-forming

Emphasizes the severity or seriousness of the addiction.

is very hard to quit

Focuses on the difficulty of stopping the activity or substance.

creates a strong dependency

Shifts the focus to the dependency aspect of addiction.

generates powerful cravings

Highlights the intensity of the cravings associated with the addiction.

exerts a strong hold

Uses metaphorical language to describe the addictive power.

is difficult to give up

Focuses on the challenge of abandoning the addictive substance or behavior.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is highly addictive"?

When something "is highly addictive", it means it has a strong potential to cause dependence, making it difficult to stop using or engaging in it. This can apply to substances like nicotine or activities like gambling.

What can I say instead of "is highly addictive"?

You can use alternatives like "is extremely habit-forming", "creates a strong dependency", or "is very hard to quit" depending on the context.

What makes a substance "is highly addictive"?

Substances that "are highly addictive" often stimulate the brain's reward system, leading to intense pleasure and a desire to repeat the experience. Over time, the brain adapts, requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effect, resulting in dependence.

Is there a difference between "is highly addictive" and "is habit-forming"?

While both terms suggest a tendency to repeat a behavior, "is highly addictive" implies a stronger compulsion and potential for negative consequences. Something that is merely habit-forming may be easier to stop than something that "is highly addictive".