What is dazzling? Pronunciation and usage in English

dazzling means . Learn how to pronounce and use dazzling through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of dazzling

dazzlingadjective

/ˈdæzlɪŋ//ˈdæzlɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "dazzling." It's a common stumbling block for non-native English speakers! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Syllables:

"Dazzling" has three syllables:

  • DAZ - (like "days")
  • ZING - (rhymes with "ring")
  • ling - (like "ling-ering")

2. Phonetics (a little more technical, but helpful):

  • DAZ: /dæz/ (The "a" is like the "a" in "say")
  • ZING: /ziŋ/ (emphasize the "ng" sound - like in "sing")
  • ling: /lɪŋ/ (Short "i" sound, followed by the "ng" sound)

3. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced roughly like: DAY-zing-ling

4. Tips for Getting it Right:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable – DAZ.
  • The "Z" sound: Don't over-emphasize the "z" sound. It’s a subtle, quick "z" as in "days."
  • The "ng" sound: Make sure you include the "ng" sound in "zing" and "ling." This creates a slightly buzzing or vibrating sound in the back of your throat.

Resources to Help You Hear It:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word?

Usage and examples with the word dazzling in English

Let's break down how to use the word "dazzling" effectively in English. It's a wonderfully evocative word, but it's often misused. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Core Meaning:

  • Primarily, "dazzling" describes something that is extremely bright and brilliant, often to the point of being overwhelming. Think of sunlight reflecting off water, or the glitter of diamonds.
  • It also implies a captivating and impressive beauty or glamour.

2. Common Usages & Examples:

  • Describing Visuals (Most Common):

    • Light/Brightness: “The dawn over the mountains was absolutely dazzling.” “The stage lights created a dazzling display.” “A dazzling waterfall cascaded down the rocks.”
    • Jewelry/Gems: “Her necklace was a dazzling collection of emeralds and rubies.” “He wore a dazzling diamond ring.”
    • Colors: "The sunset painted the sky with dazzling shades of orange and pink." "The peacock's feathers were dazzlingly vibrant."

  • Describing Performance/Skill (Impressive & Captivating):

    • "The dancer’s performance was dazzling; she moved with incredible grace and skill.”
    • "Her speech was dazzlingly clever and persuasive."
    • "The magician’s illusions were dazzling to watch."

  • Describing Appearance (Glamorous & Attractive):

    • "She arrived at the party wearing a dazzling evening gown."
    • "He had a dazzling smile that lit up the room." (This implies charm and attractiveness)

  • Figurative Usage (Something that overwhelms/astonishes):

    • "The news of his success was dazzling – he couldn’t believe it." (Here, it means overwhelming and astonishing)
    • “The complexity of the theory was dazzling; I couldn’t possibly understand it.” (Meaning confusing and overwhelming)

3. Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Intensity: "Dazzling" is a strong word. It's not something you'd use for something mildly pleasant. It suggests a high degree of brilliance or impressiveness.
  • Overuse: Be careful not to over-use it. If something is simply “beautiful” or “nice,” “dazzling” might be too much.
  • Synonyms: Consider these alternatives depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey:
    • Brilliant: (Focuses on brightness)
    • Radiant: (Focuses on shining with light/beauty)
    • Spectacular: (Highlights impressive size or beauty)
    • Gorgeous: (Focuses on beauty and elegance)
    • Glamorous: (Focuses on stylish attractiveness)
    • Captivating: (Focuses on holding attention)

4. Examples in Sentences (Putting it all together):

  • "The fireworks display was truly dazzling, illuminating the entire city."
  • "Her wit was dazzling; she could always come up with a clever retort."
  • "He wore a dazzling suit of Italian silk, instantly turning heads."
  • “The research team's discovery was dazzling, rewriting our understanding of the universe.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to describe? (e.g., a visual, a person, an event, an idea?)
  • What is the specific context where you want to use the word?

Synonyms for the word dazzling

Practice with vocabulary dazzling

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The startup's new product launch featured a _____________ display of technological innovation, captivating the entire audience.
  2. After hours of intense negotiation, the team finally reached a _____________ solution that satisfied all stakeholders.
  3. The city skyline at night was a _____________ spectacle of lights, visible for miles around.
  4. She presented a _____________ argument, supported by extensive research and compelling data.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The CEO's opening speech was described as: a) mediocre b) inspiring c) dazzling d) unremarkable

  2. Which words best describe a highly successful and attention-grabbing marketing campaign? a) subtle b) groundbreaking c) dazzling d) conventional e) spectacular

  3. The young prodigy's performance on stage was truly ________. a) mundane b) pedestrian c) phenomenal d) dazzling

  4. A well-maintained garden with vibrant flowers and intricate pathways could be called: a) dismal b) exquisite c) chaotic d) flourishing

  5. To describe a speaker who captivated their audience with eloquence and wit, you might say their presentation was: a) convoluted b) engaging c) prosaic d) captivating

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The new architectural design was so striking and brilliant that it truly stood out. (Rewrite using "dazzling" or a related word form.)
  2. Her performance in the annual review was exceptionally good, achieving far beyond expectations. (Rewrite using "dazzling" or a related word form.)
  3. The intense light from the stage spotlights made it difficult for the audience to see clearly for a moment. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, NOT "dazzling".)

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. dazzling
  2. mutually beneficial (or 'satisfactory', 'optimal')
  3. dazzling
  4. cogent (or 'persuasive', 'compelling')

Exercise 2:

  1. b) inspiring, c) dazzling
  2. b) groundbreaking, c) dazzling, e) spectacular
  3. c) phenomenal, d) dazzling
  4. b) exquisite, d) flourishing
  5. b) engaging, d) captivating

Exercise 3:

  1. The new architectural design was truly dazzling, standing out brilliantly.
  2. Her performance in the annual review was dazzling, achieving far beyond expectations.
  3. The blinding light from the stage spotlights made it difficult for the audience to see clearly for a moment.

Comment ()