sheer pace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sheer pace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is characterized by a high speed or rapidity, often in a context related to performance or movement. Example: "The athlete's sheer pace left the competition far behind in the final lap."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Above all, I loved the tales of his sheer pace.

The Guardian - Sport

Nervous because of the sheer pace of the itinerary.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Part of the problem is the sheer pace at which the army and police are recruiting.

The Economist

The sheer pace of the low-cost sector's expansion is enough to induce vertigo.

The Economist

Part of the reason for this latest push is the sheer pace of global change.

The Guardian

Du Preez was so fast he once beat Barry John for sheer pace on the outside, some trick.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

One is the sheer vertiginous pace of technological change.

The Guardian - Opinion

If it's sheer, naked pace the selectors want then Tymal Mills  is the man, but first he needs Essex to pick him in their team regularly.

BBC

We have seen the sheer power and pace and the touch that he has.

Independent

Though I knew well what it meant to be a chief executive, the sheer scale and pace of WaterAid was very different, though wonderfully exhilarating.

The Guardian

The sheer scale and pace of development is breathtaking and the imagination and ingenuity shown as each new scheme seeks to eclipse its predecessors is awesome".

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sheer pace" to emphasize not just speed, but also an overwhelming or impressive quality associated with it. For example, in sports writing, it can highlight a player's dominance; in business, the speed of market change.

Common error

Avoid using "sheer pace" in highly technical or scientific writing where precision is paramount. Terms like "velocity", "acceleration", or specific rates of change are more appropriate when quantifiable accuracy is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sheer pace" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "sheer" intensifies the noun "pace". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and used to describe a high degree of speed or momentum, as seen in examples from news and sports contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sport

25%

General

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sheer pace" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe something with remarkable speed or momentum. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most commonly found in news, media, and sports contexts. While versatile, its use should be avoided in highly technical writing where precise measurements are needed. Alternative phrases include "raw speed" or "rapid momentum" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The phrase carries a neutral register and aims to emphasize the impressive nature of the speed being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raw speed

Focuses on the unrefined, natural aspect of speed.

pure velocity

Emphasizes the rate of movement, highlighting its purity.

unadulterated speed

Highlights the genuine and intense quality of the speed.

rapid momentum

Emphasizes the quickly building force or impetus.

breakneck speed

Highlights a dangerously fast speed.

blistering speed

Conveys an extremely fast and intense speed.

lightning quickness

Implies a speed comparable to that of lightning.

high velocity

Simply refers to a great speed of motion.

swift rapidity

Highlights both the quickness and the rate at which something occurs.

extreme quickness

Emphasizes the remarkably high degree of speed.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "sheer pace" in a sentence?

Use "sheer pace" to describe something characterized by high speed or rapidity. For example: "The runner's "sheer pace" allowed him to win the race easily".

What are some alternatives to using "sheer pace"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "raw speed", "pure velocity", or "rapid momentum".

Is it always appropriate to use "sheer pace" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "sheer pace" might be less suitable for highly technical or scientific writing where precision is required. In such contexts, terms like "velocity" or "rate" may be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "sheer pace" and "high speed"?

"Sheer pace" emphasizes not only the speed but also the impressive or overwhelming quality of it. "High speed" is a more neutral and general term, while "sheer pace" suggests something remarkable or intense about the speed.