intoxicating
/in'tɔksikeitiɳ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Causing intoxication: Having the quality of producing a state of intoxication, which can be a literal physical state from alcohol or drugs, or a powerful, overwhelming emotional state.
- Extremely exciting, thrilling, or exhilarating: Producing a feeling of great excitement, euphoria, or elation, similar to the effect of a stimulant.
Usage and Examples
Literal (related to substances):
- The bartender served a potent and intoxicating cocktail.
- The law prohibits the sale of intoxicating substances to minors.
Figurative (related to powerful feelings or experiences):
- She felt the intoxicating rush of freedom after graduating.
- The intoxicating scent of jasmine filled the night air.
- He was swept away by the intoxicating rhythm of the music.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
"Intoxicating effect": The powerful influence or impact that causes a heady, euphoric feeling.
- The intoxicating effect of her praise made him work even harder.
"Intoxicating beauty/power": Used to describe an overwhelming, almost dizzying quality of something abstract.
- The intoxicating power of fame can be dangerous.
Variants and Related Words
Intoxicate (verb): To make someone lose control of their faculties or judgment, typically from alcohol or drugs; to excite or exhilarate greatly.
- The idea of adventure intoxicated him.
Intoxicated (adjective): Affected by alcohol or drugs to the point of losing control; or, powerfully excited or elated.
- He was intoxicated by the victory.
Intoxication (noun): The state of being intoxicated, either literally or figuratively.
- The intoxication of first love is unforgettable.
Synonyms
- Exhilarating: Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
- Heady: Having a strong or exhilarating effect.
- Inebriating (more formal/literal): Making someone intoxicated, especially with alcohol.
- Thrilling: Causing excitement and pleasure.
Antonyms
- Sobering: Making someone serious or thoughtful; having a calming, realistic effect.
- Boring: Not interesting; tedious.
- Nauseating: Causing nausea; disgusting or offensive.
Adjective
- extremely exciting as if by alcohol or a narcotic
- causing