earth-shattering
/ˈɜːrθˌʃætərɪŋ/
ADJECTIVE
1. Extremely important and consequential
Having an exceptionally significant, far-reaching, or transformative effect on people, events, society, or established systems, often producing major changes or influencing the course of history.
1.1. Historical events and major developments
Used to describe discoveries, inventions, announcements, or events that have an extraordinary impact on society, history, science, or the future.
Synonyms
- momentous
- epochal
- historic
- monumental
- groundbreaking
- far-reaching
- consequential
- eventful
- seminal
- tectonic
- earth-shaking
- earthshaking
- pivotal
- remarkable
- significant
Antonyms
- insignificant
- inconsequential
- trivial
- minor
- negligible
- unimportant
- uneventful
- unremarkable
- inconsiderable
- slight
- trifling
Examples
- The news of the groundbreaking discovery was truly earth-shattering.
- The scientist's research revealed an earth-shattering discovery about the origins of the universe.
- The invention had an earth-shattering impact on the technology industry.
Related Words
- breakthrough
- revolution
- transformation
- milestone
- turning point
- innovation
- discovery
- repercussion
- historical change
1.2. Critical decisions and matters of great importance
Describes decisions, issues, responsibilities, or circumstances that carry exceptionally serious consequences and are crucial to determining important outcomes.
Synonyms
- all-important
- critical
- crucial
- decisive
- determining
- essential
- indispensable
- imperative
- key
- major
- material
- paramount
- strategic
- substantial
- vital
- weighty
- grave
- serious
- of vital importance
- life-or-death
Antonyms
Examples
- The committee faced an earth-shattering decision that would determine the organization's future.
- The negotiations involved several earth-shattering issues affecting international relations.
- The agreement represented an earth-shattering achievement for both countries.
Related Words
- priority
- urgency
- necessity
- consequence
- significance
- responsibility
- importance
- decision-making
- determination
1.3. Exceptional achievements and influential contributions
Used to characterize achievements, contributions, or accomplishments that are extraordinarily significant, distinguished, or influential in a particular field.
Synonyms
- exceptional
- distinguished
- eminent
- illustrious
- outstanding
- notable
- noteworthy
- preeminent
- prestigious
- prominent
- renowned
- impressive
- valuable
- worthy
- famous
Antonyms
- anonymous
- obscure
- nameless
- insignificant
- uncelebrated
- unknown
- unremarkable
- unnoteworthy
Examples
- The researcher's earth-shattering contribution transformed the field of medical science.
- Her discovery was considered an earth-shattering achievement in modern technology.
- The entrepreneur's innovative idea had the potential for an earth-shattering impact on the industry.
Related Words
ADJECTIVE
2. Extremely dramatic or emotionally overwhelming
Having an extraordinarily powerful, surprising, or disruptive effect on someone's feelings, beliefs, expectations, or perception of reality.
2.1. Shocking news and unexpected revelations
Describes news, revelations, experiences, or events that are so surprising or emotionally powerful that they fundamentally change someone's understanding or expectations.
Synonyms
- momentous
- remarkable
- exceptional
- significant
- consequential
- far-reaching
- monumental
- historic
- earth-shaking
Antonyms
Examples
- The climactic moment in the movie was so intense and unexpected that it felt earth-shattering.
- The revelation was earth-shattering, completely changing everything she believed.
- The unexpected announcement had an earth-shattering effect on the entire community.
Related Words
- revelation
- shock
- astonishment
- disbelief
- surprise
- discovery
- realization
- emotional impact