Blazing

Giving off or reflecting an intense, vivid light.

Reach for it when describing brightness that dominates a scene

Blazing windows turned the wet street gold at sunrise.

• playful

  fiery

  flame-like color or energy is meant

  not when a cool bright light is described

• warm

  radiant

  light carries beauty or happiness

  not when harsh intensity defines the scene

• literary

  brilliant

  strong light or color creates splendor

  not when literal heat is important

Exceptionally fast, energetic, or successful.

Reach for it when praising performance marked by striking speed or momentum

The relay team set a blazing pace through the final exchange.

• playful

  electric

  performance creates contagious excitement

  not when actual velocity is being recorded

• professional

  high-powered

  strong capacity drives fast results

  not when visual brightness is intended

• professional

  rapid

  measurable speed is the only point

  not when exciting momentum should be felt

• literary

  breakneck

  speed feels dangerously extreme

  not when controlled excellence deserves praise

• dim
• faint
• sluggish
• lethargic

• blazing light

  A blazing light above the stage revealed the painted ceiling.

• blazing pace

  The new workshop opened at a blazing pace without sacrificing safety.

• blazing success

  Her debut became a blazing success across regional theaters.