startling development

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "startling development" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unexpected or surprising change or event, often in news or reports. Example: "The startling development in the investigation has left many questions unanswered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

This is a startling development.

The Economist

It is a startling development for the nation that founded an industrial revolution powered by coal.

Yale University

– even this startling development is swiftly resolved before the frogs settle back into domestic bliss.

The New York Times - Books

That would be a startling development, bringing Eastern Europe's population trends in line with the West's.

The New York Times

This startling development was not foreseen, but it was inevitable the result of several interdependent factors.

Harvard Business Review

The prison is the underside of Brazil's startling development in the past decade.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

But conservatives should not expect any startling developments.

The New York Times

In the weeks that followed there were many startling developments.

The New York Times

Perhaps the most startling developments have occurred in the realm of assisted reproductive technology, or ART.

University of California, Berkeley

Two startling developments are changing the dynamics of the Senate campaign in New York.

The New York Times

Although the plot is fairly outlandish, the narrative comes with startling developments and nicely tricky reversals.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "startling development", ensure the context clearly indicates why the development is considered startling. Provide enough background information for the reader to understand the surprise or unexpected nature of the event.

Common error

Avoid using "startling development" for minor or predictable events. Save it for situations that genuinely deviate from expectations or norms to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "startling development" functions as a noun phrase, where "startling" is an adjective modifying the noun "development". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use. The phrase is used to highlight the unexpected or surprising nature of an event or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "startling development" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe an unexpected or surprising event, confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, with applications also in academic and formal settings. Its function is to highlight the novelty and potential significance of a development, drawing the reader's attention to its unexpected nature. While versatile, it's important to reserve its use for truly surprising events to maintain its impact and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "unexpected turn of events" or "surprising twist" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unexpected turn of events

Focuses on the unforeseen nature of the change.

surprising twist

Emphasizes the element of surprise and novelty.

unforeseen circumstance

Highlights the lack of anticipation for the situation.

remarkable occurrence

Stresses the unusual and noteworthy nature of the event.

sudden revelation

Implies that something previously hidden has been brought to light abruptly.

unanticipated outcome

Focuses on the result being different from what was expected.

unpredicted evolution

Highlights that the progression wasn't foreseen.

out-of-the-blue situation

Implies that something came with no warning.

astounding incident

Emphasizes the level of surprise and bewilderment.

noteworthy happening

Highlights the newsworthy aspect of the occurrence.

FAQs

What does "startling development" mean?

A "startling development" refers to an unexpected or surprising event or change that often has significant implications. It suggests a deviation from what was anticipated or considered normal.

How can I use "startling development" in a sentence?

You can use "startling development" to introduce a surprising event or change in your writing. For example: "The most "startling development" was the sudden resignation of the CEO."

What are some alternatives to "startling development"?

Some alternatives include "unexpected turn of events", "surprising twist", or "remarkable occurrence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "startling development" formal or informal?

"Startling development" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts, including news reports, academic papers, and general discussions. However, consider your audience and choose the most appropriate phrase for your specific context.