it was riveting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was riveting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that was extremely interesting or engaging, often in the context of a story, performance, or presentation. Example: "The novel was so well-written that it was riveting from start to finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

But it was riveting.

The New York Times

It was riveting.

Independent

It was riveting viewing.

The Guardian - Sport

Readers said it was riveting and unflinching.

The New York Times

It was riveting to watch a new technology evolve.

The New York Times - Sports

"And it was riveting, very artfully done, a very effective ad".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

In the earliest examples, the thin blade moved stiffly because it was riveted into a slot in the thick blade.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Though slightly cracked, in its simplicity it is riveting.

The New York Times - Arts

It's riveting.

The New York Times

Not much happens, but it's riveting.

The New York Times - Arts

In the hands of his biographer David Nasaw, it is riveting history.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was riveting" to describe experiences, performances, or narratives that deeply engage and hold the audience's attention. Ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "it was riveting" for ordinary or commonplace events. This phrase is most effective when describing something truly exceptional or captivating, as overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was riveting" functions as a subjective assessment, expressing a strong positive reaction to something experienced. It highlights the captivating and engaging nature of an event, performance, or piece of content, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was riveting" is a versatile and effective phrase for expressing strong engagement and captivation. As shown by Ludwig, it's commonly used in news and media to describe performances, events, or narratives that hold the audience's attention. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's best reserved for genuinely exceptional experiences to avoid diluting its impact. Consider using synonyms like "it was captivating" or "it was compelling" for subtle variations in tone. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness and provides numerous examples for context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was captivating

Focuses on the power to hold attention and interest.

it was compelling

Highlights the irresistible force or influence of something.

it was enthralling

Emphasizes a magical or spellbinding quality.

it was gripping

Suggests a tight hold on one's attention, often with suspense.

it was fascinating

Indicates a strong intellectual or emotional interest.

it was absorbing

Highlights the ability to completely occupy one's mind.

it was spellbinding

Implies a mesmerizing or enchanting effect.

it was mesmerizing

Focuses on a hypnotic or trance-like quality.

it was intriguing

Suggests curiosity and a desire to know more.

it was interesting

A more general term for something that holds one's attention.

FAQs

How can I use "it was riveting" in a sentence?

You can use "it was riveting" to describe something extremely interesting or engaging. For instance, "The performance was so captivating that "it was riveting" from beginning to end".

What can I say instead of "it was riveting"?

You can use alternatives like "it was captivating", "it was compelling", or "it was enthralling" depending on the context.

Is "it was riveting" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "it was riveting" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing a performance, speech, or event that held your attention. However, consider alternatives like "it was compelling" for a slightly more formal tone.

What makes something "riveting"?

Something is "riveting" when it intensely grabs your attention and holds your interest. This can be due to suspense, emotional connection, intellectual stimulation, or a combination of factors. It implies a powerful, engaging experience.