# spectacular

/spɛkˈtækjəɫɝ/ (US) · /spɛktˈækjʊlɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/spectacular
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. impressive to see

adjective · CEFR B1

very exciting to look at or extremely impressive.

For teachers: strikingly grand, impressive, or dramatic in appearance or manner.

- The view from the top of the mountain was absolutely spectacular.
- The sunset provided a spectacular backdrop for the outdoor wedding, with deep purples and oranges reflecting off the calm lake.

### 2. great success or failure

adjective · CEFR B2

used to describe a result that is much better or worse than usual.

For teachers: characterised by a dramatic or extreme degree of success or failure.

- The new product was a spectacular success and sold out in hours.
- Despite the heavy investment, the project ended in a spectacular failure that forced the company to restructure its entire research department.

### 3. a grand show

noun · CEFR B2

a very large and impressive public show or performance.

For teachers: a lavishly produced performance or display, often involving many performers or complex visual effects.

- The city put on a Christmas spectacular with lights and music.
- The television network's annual musical spectacular attracted millions of viewers, featuring elaborate choreography and high-budget pyrotechnics.

## Examples

- The view from the top of the mountain is spectacular.
- The city celebrated the new year with a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor.
- Despite the modest budget, the production design was truly spectacular, utilizing innovative lighting techniques to create an immersive and otherworldly atmosphere.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.