sky high

USAGE SUMMARY

'sky high' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is extremely high, in either literal or figurative sense. For example, "The prices for the concert tickets were sky high."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Expectations are sky high.

The Economist

Sky high.

The Guardian

"Our confidence is sky high.

The New York Times - Sports

His confidence is sky high.

The New York Times - Sports

The house blows sky high.

The New Yorker

Confidence is sky high.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

They will feel sky-high.

The New York Times - Sports

"Sky-high refuse!" he said.

The New Yorker

Property prices are sky-high.

The New York Times

Or sky-high.

The Washington Post

Unemployment remains sky-high.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sky high" to emphasize that something is exceptionally high, whether literally (like a building) or figuratively (like prices or expectations). It adds a vivid image to your writing.

Common error

While "sky high" is descriptive, avoid using it repeatedly in a short piece of writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "extremely high" or "astronomical" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sky high" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate an extreme level or height. Ludwig shows examples where it describes confidence, prices, and expectations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sky high" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that is exceptionally high, whether literally or figuratively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, with a primary presence in news and media. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider more formal alternatives in professional or academic writing. Remember, while "sky high" brings a vivid image to your writing, diversifying your vocabulary will enhance your overall communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extremely high

Focuses on the intensity of the high level rather than a visual comparison to the sky.

through the roof

An idiomatic expression indicating a very high level, often unexpected or undesirable.

very elevated

Emphasizes a higher position or status, removing the direct sky reference.

elevated

Focuses on the state of being high or raised, removing the direct sky reference.

towering

Conveys a sense of great height and impressiveness, often used for physical structures.

astronomical

Implies a magnitude as vast as the stars, often used for prices or numbers.

soaring

Suggests upward movement and elevation, suitable for describing prices or spirits.

at its peak

Denotes the highest point achieved, suitable for describing success or popularity.

way up there

Informal way to express a high position, removing the intensity.

at a premium

Describes high prices or value, distancing from the literal sky comparison.

FAQs

What does "sky high" mean?

"Sky high" is an idiom that means extremely high, whether referring to a physical height or a figurative level, such as prices or expectations.

How can I use "sky high" in a sentence?

You can use "sky high" to describe anything that is at a very high level. For example, "The cost of living in the city is "extremely high"", or "Their hopes were "at their peak" after the victory."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "sky high"?

Alternatives to "sky high" include "extremely high", "astronomical", or "through the roof", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "sky high" in formal writing?

While "sky high" is widely understood, it's generally more appropriate for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "extremely high" or "very elevated".