adjective

towering

/ˈtaʊərɪŋ/ · say it: TOW·er·ing

extremely tall or impressive

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) extremely tall or high

2. (adjective) very great or impressive in size, power, or importance

Examples

1. The towering skyscrapers dominated the city skyline.
2. He was a towering figure in the world of science.

How to use towering

Towering describes something that is strikingly tall or impressive, often evoking awe or admiration. It is used literally for physical height (a towering skyscraper) and metaphorically for significance or influence (a towering intellect). The word carries a more dramatic, evocative tone than simple alternatives like 'tall' or 'great'.

Common phrases

towering above
towering inferno
towering figure
towering achievement
towering presence

Synonyms

soaring · imposing · majestic · lofty · commanding

Opposites

diminutive · insignificant · modest

Word family

tower (noun/verb) · tower (noun - structure)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'towering' to describe simply ordinary height or importance when a more modest word like 'tall' or 'great' would be more appropriate.

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