Scenic: meaning, definitions and examples

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scenic

 

[ˈsiːnɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

beautiful natural views

providing or relating to views of impressive or beautiful natural scenery

Synonyms

breathtaking, panoramic, picturesque.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scenic

Use this word to describe a place that has beautiful natural scenery. It is often used for drives, routes, and places that are visually pleasing due to nature.

  • The scenic route along the coast is worth the extra time
  • We stopped at a scenic overlook to take some photos
picturesque

This word describes a place that is so charming and visually attractive that it could be the subject of a painting. It often suggests a quaint, idyllic quality.

  • The village was picturesque, with its cobblestone streets and traditional houses
  • They chose a picturesque spot by the lake for their picnic
breathtaking

This word is used to describe a view or scene that is exceptionally beautiful, so much so that it takes one's breath away. It implies a sense of awe and wonder.

  • The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking
  • Watching the sunset from the beach was a breathtaking experience
panoramic

Choose this word to emphasize a wide, expansive view. It is usually used when describing views that cover a large area, often in all directions.

  • The hotel room offered a panoramic view of the city skyline
  • We enjoyed the panoramic scenery from the observation deck

Examples of usage

  • The area is known for its scenic beauty.
  • We took a scenic drive along the coast.
Context #2 | Adjective

aesthetic appeal

visually appealing or picturesque

Synonyms

attractive, beautiful, charming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scenic

Used to describe a place with visually appealing natural landscapes, often related to tourism and nature.

  • The scenic route along the coastline offers breathtaking views.
  • We booked a hotel with a scenic view of the mountains.
beautiful

Describes something or someone that is aesthetically pleasing. Often used to denote high levels of beauty.

  • The sunset over the ocean was absolutely beautiful.
  • She wore a beautiful dress to the gala.
attractive

Generally used to describe anything that is pleasing to the senses, not limited to appearance, but can also refer to personality or features.

  • She has an attractive personality that draws people to her.
  • The city is attractive to tourists because of its vibrant nightlife.
charming

Used to describe something or someone that is pleasantly attractive, often in a cute or endearing way. Can be used for people, places, or even objects.

  • He has a charming smile that lights up the room.
  • The village is full of charming little houses.

Examples of usage

  • The hotel has a scenic rooftop terrace.
  • This painting captures the scenic beauty of the countryside.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'scenic' comes from the Greek word 'skēnē,' meaning scene or stage, which relates to how scenes are visually appealing.
  • It entered the English language in the early 19th century, initially used to describe theater backgrounds and later expanded to landscapes.
  • Scenic originally referred to visually striking elements on stage, eventually evolving to encompass landscapes and natural beauty.

Travel

  • Many national parks are famous for their scenic vistas, attracting millions of visitors who seek beautiful views of nature.
  • Scenic routes, like California's Pacific Coast Highway, are designed to showcase incredible landscapes and natural formations.
  • Photos of scenic locations are often used in travel advertising to entice tourists and convey the beauty of a destination.

Art

  • Scenic painting, a genre from the Renaissance period, captured breathtaking landscapes and views, influencing modern landscape art.
  • Artists like Claude Monet celebrated scenic beauty through Impressionism, focusing on the effects of light on nature.
  • The concept of 'scenic' has evolved to include not only visual beauty but also emotional resonance evoked by landscapes in art.

Psychology

  • Studies show exposure to scenic environments can reduce stress and enhance mood, contributing to overall well-being.
  • Nature therapy often utilizes scenic landscapes to help individuals connect with the outdoors, promoting mental health.
  • The aesthetic appreciation of scenic views can evoke feelings of awe and happiness, impacting cognitive functions positively.

Film and Media

  • In cinematography, 'scenic shots' are used to establish settings and convey emotions, enhancing storytelling.
  • Documentaries about nature often focus on scenic beauty to immerse viewers in the environment being depicted.
  • Film festivals celebrate works that showcase scenic cinematography, recognizing the artistic merit of visuals in storytelling.

Translations

Translations of the word "scenic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cênico

🇮🇳 दृश्यमान

🇩🇪 szenisch

🇮🇩 pemandangan

🇺🇦 сценічний

🇵🇱 sceniczny

🇯🇵 景色の良い

🇫🇷 scénique

🇪🇸 escénico

🇹🇷 manzara

🇰🇷 경치 좋은

🇸🇦 ذو مناظر خلابة

🇨🇿 scénický

🇸🇰 scénický

🇨🇳 风景如画的

🇸🇮 scenski

🇮🇸 sviðsmynd

🇰🇿 сахналық

🇬🇪 სცენური

🇦🇿 səhnəvi

🇲🇽 escénico

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,494, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.