towering structure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "towering structure" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a building or object that is very tall and impressive. An example is: "The city skyline was dominated by a towering structure that reached into the clouds." Alternative expressions include "imposing edifice" and "lofty building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

In one, a worker painting the underbelly of a towering structure dangles precariously in a cloud of smoke, the factory grounds just visible hundreds of feet below.

The New York Times - Arts

In connection with wind sensitivity for the towering and hollowed-out structures (drilling derrick, crane, etc) of large offshore oil platform, the wind-induced response of towering structure was studied.

Petroleum Exploration and Development

IDH KAH Mosque, a towering structure in central Kashgar, the westernmost city in China's vast province of Xinjiang, has always been a prime meeting place for Uighurs, the Muslim Turkic people who historically dominated Xinjiang.

The Economist

The across-wind load can not be neglected in wind resistance design of large offshore oil platform, also the wind-induced response on the top/bottom of derrick and the magnification of fluctuating across-wind load of towering structure should be mainly considered.

Petroleum Exploration and Development

Inside the cathedral, a towering structure with limestone pillars and stained glass windows where the nation's leaders have often gone in times of trial, the silence was striking for much of the service, which included an initial prayer by an Islamic cleric, Imam Muzammil H. Siddiqi, and a sermon by the Rev. Billy Graham.

The New York Times

One evening in December, the orchestra celebrated its twentieth anniversary with a concert at the Béatrice Hotel, a towering structure of glass and taupe brick near the Gare Centrale, the site of a defunct train station and a fountain commemorating Congo's independence.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Citizens would have been made to feel variously impressed and inhibited by the towering structures around them.

The Guardian

They have cooperated to construct and preserve towering structures of debt, reshaping relations of power and ownership around the world.

Cornell University

These towering structures maintain some degree of calm by physically separating the city's populations, as if they were animals in a zoo.

The New Yorker

The exhibition, which runs through April 28, also includes photographs of the towering structures themselves, including the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, the A.T.&T.

The New York Times - Arts

Sze's precariously towering structures, fashioned from consumer detritus, demonstrate that uncertainty can be as thrilling as it can be dreadful.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "towering structure" when you want to convey both the height and the imposing nature of a building or object. It's particularly effective in descriptions aimed at creating a sense of awe or respect.

Common error

Avoid using "towering structure" when a simpler term like "tall building" or "high rise" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "towering structure" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "towering" modifies the noun "structure". This combination describes a building or object characterized by its significant height and imposing presence, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

23%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "towering structure" functions as a noun phrase used to describe something tall and imposing. Ludwig AI considers the phrase grammatically correct. While "towering structure" is not a common phrase, appearing primarily in News & Media and Science contexts, it effectively conveys both height and impressiveness. Alternatives include "imposing edifice" and "lofty building". Use it to describe physical constructions and, eventually, metaphorical concepts. Keep in mind not to overuse this phrase and prefer other more simple terms if the case, such as "tall building".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Towering edifice

Combines the height and impressive nature of the building.

Imposing edifice

Emphasizes the grandeur and impressiveness of the structure.

Lofty building

Highlights the height and prominence of the building.

Skyscraper

Specifically refers to a very tall, modern building.

Monumental building

Stresses the historical and enduring quality of the building.

Soaring monument

Implies a significant and elevated structure, often with historical or cultural importance.

Giant construction

Focuses on the immense size and physical effort involved in creating the structure.

Elevated construction

Highlights the height of the construction.

Colossal framework

Highlights the massive scale and the underlying support system of the structure.

Vertical giant

A metaphorical expression emphasizing the height and size.

FAQs

How can I use "towering structure" in a sentence?

You can use "towering structure" to describe a tall and impressive building or object. For example, "The cathedral was a "towering structure" that dominated the skyline."

What is another way to say "towering structure"?

Alternatives to "towering structure" include "imposing edifice", "lofty building", or "skyscraper", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "towering structure" in formal writing?

Yes, "towering structure" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to emphasize the grandeur or scale of a building. However, ensure it fits the overall tone and isn't overly dramatic for the context.

What is the difference between "towering structure" and "tall building"?

"Towering structure" implies not just height, but also a sense of impressiveness and dominance. "Tall building" is a more neutral and straightforward description, while "towering structure" evokes a stronger emotional response.