Astounding vs. Outstanding — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 8, 2024
Astounding refers to something surprisingly impressive, causing wonder or shock, while outstanding denotes exceptionally good quality or performance.
Difference Between Astounding and Outstanding
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Astounding is used to describe something that causes a great surprise or amazement due to its remarkable nature or unexpectedness. It often conveys a sense of shock or overwhelming impression. On the other hand, outstanding refers to something that is exceptionally good or superior in quality or performance, standing out from the rest but not necessarily surprising.
The term astounding might be used in contexts where something exceeds expectations to a degree that is almost unbelievable or hard to comprehend. For example, an astounding discovery in science that changes the way we understand the universe. Whereas outstanding is often used to describe excellence that is recognized and expected, such as an outstanding athlete who consistently performs at the top of their game.
Astounding can evoke a stronger emotional response, implying that the observer is not only impressed but also taken aback by the magnitude or quality of what they are witnessing. This could be an astounding work of art that moves people deeply. On the other hand, outstanding may not evoke the same level of emotional response but denotes a high level of respect and acknowledgment for the quality or performance of someone or something, like an outstanding contribution to a field of study.
In some contexts, astounding could imply a certain level of novelty or unexpectedness, something that breaks the mold or defies prior expectations. For instance, an inventor creating an astounding new technology that revolutionizes an industry. In contrast, outstanding often relates to consistent excellence within established parameters or expectations, like an outstanding student who consistently achieves top grades.
While both terms are complimentary, the choice between astounding and outstanding depends on the context and the nature of what is being described. Astounding emphasizes the shock and amazement factor, while outstanding emphasizes a high standard of excellence and quality that sets someone or something apart from the rest.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Surprisingly impressive, causing wonder or shock.
Exceptionally good quality or performance.
Context
Used when something exceeds normal expectations to a surprising degree.
Used to denote excellence or superiority that is recognized within expected standards.
Emotional Response
Often evokes a strong sense of amazement or shock.
Conveys respect and acknowledgment for quality or performance.
Novelty
Implies a level of unexpectedness or breaking new ground.
Often relates to consistent excellence within established norms.
Examples
Astounding discoveries, astonishing achievements.
Outstanding contributions, exceptional performances.
Compare with Definitions
Astounding
Extremely surprising or shocking.
The magician's final trick was so astounding that the audience gasped in disbelief.
Outstanding
Associated with excellence and superiority.
His outstanding achievements in the field of science are well documented.
Astounding
Typically implies a significant, unexpected impact on the observer or field.
The technological breakthrough was so astounding that it changed the industry overnight.
Outstanding
Exceptionally good; standing out from the rest.
Her outstanding performance earned her the lead role in the next production.
Astounding
Carries a sense of overwhelming wonder or shock.
The beauty of the natural phenomenon was so astounding that it left her speechless.
Outstanding
Tends to be used when someone or something receives widespread acclaim or honors.
She received an award for her outstanding contribution to community service.
Astounding
Often applied to situations or achievements that are beyond what is considered ordinary or expected.
The scientist's latest research provided astounding insights into the nature of black holes.
Outstanding
Describes high quality or performance that is recognized and appreciated.
The teacher's outstanding dedication to her students was acknowledged by the entire school.
Astounding
Evokes strong emotional reactions, such as amazement or awe.
The performance was so astounding that it moved many in the audience to tears.
Outstanding
Often implies a consistent level of high quality or performance.
The athlete's outstanding record speaks for itself, with numerous national titles.
Astounding
Surprisingly impressive or notable
The summit offers astounding views
Outstanding
"Outstanding" is a song originally performed by The Gap Band and written by member Raymond Calhoun. The song originally appeared on the group's platinum-selling 1982 album Gap Band IV. It is one of their signature songs and biggest hits, reaching the number one spot on the U.S. R&B Singles Chart in February 1983.
Astounding
To astonish and bewilder.
Outstanding
Exceptionally good
The team's outstanding performance
Astounding
Present participle of astound
Outstanding
Not yet paid, resolved, or dealt with
Julian's outstanding debts
Much of the work is still outstanding
Astounding
That astounds or astound.
Astounding success; an astounding spectacle
Outstanding
Excellent or exceptionally good
An outstanding essay that received an A+.
Astounding
Of a nature to astound; astonishing; amazing; as, an astounding force, statement, or fact.
Outstanding
Noticeable or conspicuous
"Thiamine deficiency alone generally produces peripheral neuritis and numbness as its most outstanding features" (Vernon H. Mark).
Astounding
Bewildering or striking dumb with wonder
Outstanding
Still in existence; not settled or resolved
Outstanding debts.
A long outstanding problem.
Astounding
So surprisingly impressive as to stun or overwhelm;
Such an enormous response was astonishing
An astounding achievement
The amount of money required was staggering
Suffered a staggering defeat
The figure inside the boucle dress was stupefying
Outstanding
Publicly issued and sold
Outstanding shares of stock.
Outstanding
Present participle of outstand
Outstanding
Prominent or noticeable; standing out from others.
Outstanding
Exceptionally good; distinguished from others by its superiority.
Outstanding
Projecting outwards.
Outstanding
Unresolved; not settled or finished.
Outstanding
Owed as a debt.
Outstanding
That stands out; undischarged; uncollected; not paid; as, outstanding obligations.
Revenues . . . as well outstanding as collected.
Outstanding
Conspicuously excellent; markedly superior; distinguished.
Outstanding
So prominent so as to attract notice; conspicuous; usually but not always in a good sense.
Outstanding
Distinguished from others in excellence;
Did outstanding work in human relations
An outstanding war record
Outstanding
Having a quality that thrusts itself into attention;
An outstanding fact of our time is that nations poisoned by anti semitism proved less fortunate in regard to their own freedom
A new theory is the most prominent feature of the book
Salient traits
A spectacular rise in prices
A striking thing about Picadilly Circus is the statue of Eros in the center
A striking resemblance between parent and child
Outstanding
Of major significance or importance;
A great work of art
Einstein was one of the outstanding figures of the 20th century
Outstanding
Owed as a debt;
Outstanding bills
The amount still owed
Undischarged debts
Common Curiosities
Can something be both astounding and outstanding?
Yes, something can be both astounding and outstanding if it is exceptionally good and also surprisingly impressive beyond expectations.
How is outstanding used?
Outstanding is used to describe something that is exceptionally good or superior in quality or performance.
What type of achievements might be called astounding?
Achievements that far exceed expectations or present groundbreaking discoveries can be called astounding.
Can a person be described as outstanding?
Yes, a person can be described as outstanding if they consistently demonstrate exceptional skill, performance, or contribution in their field.
Do astounding and outstanding mean the same thing?
No, astounding emphasizes surprising impressiveness, while outstanding denotes exceptional quality or performance.
Is astounding used more for unexpected events?
Yes, astounding is often used for events, achievements, or phenomena that are unexpectedly impressive or shocking.
What is the difference between an outstanding and an average performance?
An outstanding performance significantly surpasses the usual standards of quality or achievement, while an average performance meets but does not exceed standard expectations.
How does outstanding relate to recognition?
Outstanding often involves recognition or acclaim from peers, institutions, or the public for exceptional quality or performance.
What might be considered an outstanding work of art?
An outstanding work of art would be one that demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and receives widespread acclaim.
Is astounding always a positive term?
While often used positively, astounding can describe anything that causes great surprise, including negative shocks.
What makes something outstanding?
Something is considered outstanding due to its high quality, superior performance, or recognition as being exceptional in its field.
What does astounding mean?
Astounding describes something that is extremely surprising or shocking, often beyond what is expected.
How do people typically react to something astounding?
People typically react to something astounding with strong emotions such as surprise, shock, amazement, or awe.
Can a failure ever be described as astounding?
Yes, a failure can be described as astounding if it's surprisingly significant or shocking in its magnitude.
Can an everyday event be described as astounding?
Typically, everyday events aren't described as astounding unless they occur in a surprising or unusually impressive manner.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
