sky-high

USAGE SUMMARY

"sky-high" is correct and usable in written English.
You can typically use it in the context of describing something that is alarmingly high, for example: "The cost of living in this city is sky-high!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 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

Unemployment remains sky-high.

The New York Times

Sky-high salt content.

The New York Times - Health

Hipster rating Sky-high.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Expectations are sky high.

The Economist

"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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sky-high" to describe something abstract, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being measured or compared. For instance, "sky-high expectations" implies a very high level of anticipated performance.

Common error

Avoid using "sky-high" solely to describe the physical height of objects without conveying a sense of exaggeration or alarm. For example, describing a mountain as "sky-high" is less effective than describing inflation as "sky-high".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sky-high" is an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something that is extremely high in degree, amount, or physical height. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread use as a descriptor.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "sky-high" is a commonly used term to describe something that is extremely high. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile in its application. It's frequently found in news and media contexts to emphasize extreme levels of things like prices, expectations, or even physical structures. While suitable for many situations, be mindful of the potential for exaggeration and consider whether a more neutral term might be appropriate in formal writing. When used effectively, "sky-high" adds emphasis and vividly conveys the idea of something reaching an exceptional degree.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

astronomical

Emphasizes an extremely large or high quantity, similar to objects in space.

exorbitant

Specifically refers to prices or costs that are excessively high.

towering

Implies great height, often used for physical structures or achievements.

soaring

Suggests a rapid increase or rise to a high level.

stratospheric

Similar to astronomical, but with an emphasis to the atmospheric layers.

through the roof

Indicates a value or level exceeding its expected maximum.

elevated

Suggests a raised position, either physically or figuratively.

high-flying

Describes something that has reached great heights, or is very successful.

rampant

Indicates uncontrolled spreading or increasing of something negative.

massive

Implies great size or scale, though not necessarily height.

FAQs

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

You can use "sky-high" to describe something extremely high, such as prices, expectations, or buildings. For example, "The property taxes in that area are "sky-high"".

What are some alternatives to "sky-high"?

Some alternatives to "sky-high" include "astronomical", "exorbitant", and "towering", depending on the specific context.

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

While "sky-high" is generally acceptable, it is best suited for contexts where a slightly informal or emphatic tone is appropriate. In very formal writing, consider using more neutral alternatives like "extremely high" or "excessive".

Which is correct: "sky-high prices" or "sky high prices"?

"Sky-high prices" is the correct and more common form, as it is typically used as a compound adjective. "Sky high prices" is grammatically correct, but less common.