earth-shattering; groundbreaking; breathtaking
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesidiom
(of music or sound) earth-shattering; soul-stirring; describing sounds that are suddenly high and low, unexpected and indescribably wonderful
literaryOriginating from Li He's Tang dynasty poem "Li Ping Konghou Yin" (《李凭箜篌引》), describing the sound of the konghou (an ancient Chinese harp).
Li Ping's konghou performance was earth-shattering, shaking the entire audience.
The climax of that song was earth-shattering and unforgettable.
idiom
(of writing or opinions) groundbreaking; revolutionary; startlingly novel and brilliant
Extended metaphorical meaning from the original musical description, now commonly used for writing, theories, or arguments.
The viewpoint in this article was groundbreaking, sparking widespread discussion in academic circles.
He put forward a completely new theory that shook the established order, overturning traditional understanding.
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The ending of this novel was earth-shattering, completely subverting readers' expectations.