What does strikingly mean?
“Strikingly” is an adverb meaning “remarkably” or “in a way that attracts attention.” It describes something that is unusually vivid, beautiful, different, effective, or otherwise memorable. For example, a building may be “strikingly modern,” or two accounts may be “strikingly similar.” The word is closely related to the adjective “striking,” from which it is formed, but it functions differently: “striking” characterizes a person or thing, while “strikingly” modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. In careful prose, it is useful for emphasizing that a quality is especially noticeable or that a contrast is considerable. It often has a formal, descriptive, or slightly literary quality and should not be used merely as an elaborate substitute for “very” when no noteworthy contrast or effect is intended.
adverbIn a way that is notably striking or remarkable; so as to attract attention. It can also mean remarkably or unexpectedly, often emphasizing the degree of a difference or effect.
- In a way that attracts attention through unusual appearance, effect, or importance.
- To a remarkable or especially noticeable degree.
"The two proposals were strikingly similar despite coming from different teams."
"The restoration revealed a strikingly vivid mural beneath the later layers of paint."
"She gave a strikingly concise account of a complicated research project."
When something is strikingly different, it does not merely stand out—it refuses to blend in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does strikingly come from?
“Strikingly” was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to “striking.” “Striking” in turn comes from “strike,” meaning to hit, affect, or make an impression, and originally referred to the striking of light or a striking appearance. The related forms “strike” and “stricken” preserve the same verbal and participial base, although their modern meanings have specialized in different directions.
Related word forms
How strikingly is actually used
The adverb is especially common in formal and descriptive writing. It can carry a slightly literary tone, and its use often emphasizes either conspicuousness or an unusually strong contrast.
Easily confused with strikingly
“Striking” is usually an adjective describing something visually impressive or unusual, whereas “strikingly” is an adverb describing how an action, difference, or impression occurs.