What does "breathtaking" mean?

1. (beautiful or impressive) extremely beautiful or amazing to look at. 2. (shocking or surprising) very surprising or shocking, often because of someone's boldness or a lack of shame.

How do you use "breathtaking"?

usually placed before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'look'. often used in a critical or evaluative context.

breathtaking

adj.

US //ˈbɹɛθˌteɪkɪŋ// UK //bɹˈɛθteɪkɪŋ// breath·tak·ing

1 beautiful or impressive (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

extremely beautiful or amazing to look at.

stunningly beautiful or impressive; often used to describe landscapes, views, or artistic performances.

Example

The view from the top of the mountain was absolutely breathtaking.

Example

The hikers paused at the ridge to admire the breathtaking panorama of the snow-capped peaks stretching toward the horizon.

Usage

usually placed before a noun or after a linking verb like 'be' or 'look'.
- unimpressive
- dull
- ordinary
2 shocking or surprising (adj.)
C1 Advanced Formal

very surprising or shocking, often because of someone's boldness or a lack of shame.

astonishingly bold or shocking in degree; frequently used to describe negative qualities like arrogance or hypocrisy.

Example

The company showed a breathtaking lack of concern for its customers.

Example

The politician's breathtaking hypocrisy was immediately called out by the press during the morning briefing.

Usage

often used in a critical or evaluative context.
- predictable
- modest

Origin

From breath + taking.