WordGarden.iosensationally
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sɛnsˈeɪʃənəli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
in a dramatic, shocking, or attention-grabbing way
extremely well or impressively
Beyond the definition
To do something sensationally means to do it in a way that gets a lot of attention because it is very exciting, impressive, or shocking. Think of a singer giving an amazing performance or a team winning in a way no one expected. A story might be reported sensationally if it is told in a dramatic, attention-grabbing way. So the word often suggests something that makes a big impact and gets people talking.
"Sensationally" is an adverb that describes how something is done in a way that creates strong interest, excitement, or shock. It often suggests that a performance, event, or piece of news makes a much bigger impact than usual.
Originally, "sensation" referred to a physical feeling experienced through the senses. Over time, the meaning broadened to include things that create strong emotion or widespread interest. Because of that, "sensationally" came to describe things done in a way that causes a powerful reaction.
You might read about an athlete performing sensationally at the Olympics, meaning the performance was outstanding and exciting to watch. A movie could be described as "sensationally directed" if it feels striking and impressive. A scandal might break "sensationally" when shocking details are suddenly revealed to the public.
However, be careful. Sometimes "sensationally" can carry a slightly negative meaning, suggesting that something is presented in an exaggerated or overly dramatic way to attract attention, much like sensationalist journalism.
So, whether it is a triumph, a revelation, or a bit of hype, "sensationally" describes something done in a way that strongly grabs attention and leaves a lasting impression.
Examples
- 1
Tabloid reporting
The tabloid was accused of sensationally reporting the murder case.
- 2
Sports upset
Sensationally, the defending champions lost 4-0 at home.
- 3
Sales success
Her first novel sold sensationally well after it won the prize.
- Phrasesensationally well
extremely well
- 4
Informal praise
The food was expensive, but the fish was sensationally good.
- Usage
sensationally + adjective can mean "extremely" in informal English
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- ordinary
- unremarkably
Used with (collocations)
- sensationally good
- played sensationally
- sensationally successful
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sensationallyadverb