it is staggering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is staggering" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express astonishment or disbelief at something that is overwhelmingly impressive or surprising. Example: "The amount of data generated every day is staggering, highlighting the rapid growth of technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

But "it is staggering how much people still don't know" about AIDS in China, India and the former Soviet Union, where H.I.V. is being transmitted at alarming rates, Mr. Clinton said.

The New York Times - Health

Built of dark oak, the Vasa is 226 feet long and 172 feet high at its tallest point, and at first sight it is staggering.

The New York Times - Travel

The cruelty of it is staggering.

The New Yorker

None the less, it is staggering how much one hit show can change a channel's image.

The Guardian

After all this, it is staggering that the Hindu right gets away so easily by routinely humiliating Indian Muslims.

The Guardian - Opinion

The swiftness of this change in consciousness — and the linguistic change that goes with it — is staggering.

The New York Times

It is staggering how low some people are stooping simply to con a few hours of free parking and alarming to see thefts rising so significantly.

Independent

But with the prospect of free agency just over four months away, Reyes has little incentive to accept an offer from the Mets unless it is staggering.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, it is staggering just to recount the credits and reflect on the variety as well as the achievement of Mr. Altman in that decade.

The New York Times

"It is staggering how little of the childcare men actually do," says psychologist Oliver James, whose book, They F*** You Up: How to Survive Family Life, will be published in the autumn.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

If you look at the figures, she's right it is staggering.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is staggering" to emphasize the magnitude or unexpectedness of a situation or fact. It is best used when you want to express a sense of awe, disbelief, or strong surprise.

Common error

Avoid using "it is staggering" for minor or commonplace situations. This phrase is best reserved for truly exceptional or surprising circumstances to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is staggering" primarily functions as an evaluative expression. It conveys a strong sense of surprise, astonishment, or disbelief. As Ludwig AI points out, it expresses astonishment at something that is overwhelmingly impressive or surprising.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

20%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is staggering" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to convey a sense of profound surprise or astonishment. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is considered correct in written English and is often used to express disbelief or admiration towards something overwhelmingly impressive or surprising. Predominantly found in News & Media, its purpose is to emphasize the magnitude or unexpected nature of a given situation. When aiming to express similar sentiments, alternatives such as "it is astonishing" or "it is astounding" can be employed, depending on the specific nuance one wishes to convey. To maintain its impact, reserve "it is staggering" for situations that truly warrant such emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is astonishing

Replaces "staggering" with a synonym expressing great surprise.

it is astounding

Similar to "astonishing" but with a slightly stronger emphasis on amazement.

it is remarkable

Focuses on the noteworthy or exceptional nature of something.

it is unbelievable

Highlights the difficulty in believing something due to its surprising nature.

it is incredible

Emphasizes the extraordinary or improbable quality of something.

it is mind-blowing

An informal way to describe something extremely impressive or surprising.

it is overwhelming

Highlights the intense or overpowering effect of something.

it is breathtaking

Suggests that something is so impressive that it takes one's breath away.

it is shocking

Emphasizes the surprising and often unsettling nature of something.

it is simply amazing

Uses a more direct and emphatic way to express admiration.

FAQs

How can I use "it is staggering" in a sentence?

Use "it is staggering" to express astonishment or disbelief about something. For example, "It is staggering how much plastic ends up in our oceans each year" shows surprise at the large amount of plastic waste.

What are some alternatives to "it is staggering"?

Alternatives include "it is astonishing", "it is astounding", or "it is remarkable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "it is staggering" in formal writing?

Yes, "it is staggering" is suitable for formal writing, especially when conveying a significant level of surprise or impact. However, consider the specific audience and tone to ensure it aligns with the overall style.

What makes "it is staggering" different from "it is surprising"?

"It is staggering" implies a greater degree of astonishment or disbelief than "it is surprising". "Staggering" suggests that something is so overwhelming that it almost causes one to falter or be taken aback, while "surprising" simply indicates something unexpected.