showstopper

[/ˈʃoʊˌstɑpər/]
nounpl: showstoppers
atração de destaque, número sensacional, sucesso espetacular
1. A performance, act, or feature so impressive that it causes the audience to stop and applaud
The acrobatic finale was a real showstopper that earned a standing ovation.
O finale acrobático foi um verdadeiro número sensacional que conquistou uma ovação de pé.
2. Any person, product, or thing that is remarkably impressive or successful
The new smartphone model is a showstopper in the tech industry.
O novo modelo de smartphone é um sucesso espetacular na indústria de tecnologia.
3. Something that halts or interrupts progress or momentum
The scandal became a showstopper for his political career.
O escândalo se tornou um obstáculo espetacular para sua carreira política.
This word is particularly prevalent in American entertainment and business contexts. In the USA, it's commonly used in Broadway theater, film industry discussions, and corporate presentations. In Brazil, it's become increasingly popular in entertainment and tech sectors, often borrowed directly from English. The term carries connotations of excellence and wow-factor that resonates strongly in performance-based and competitive business cultures.
NYC Slang
banger, killer, show-stopper (used to describe impressive performances in Broadway and entertainment venues)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
blockbusterhitsensationknockoutcrowd-pleasersmashmarvelmasterpiece
Antonyms / Antônimos
flopfailureduddisappointmentfiasco

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
atração de destaque, número sensacional
Most common usage; refers to impressive performances or products
Rio de Janeiro
sensação, sucesso estrondoso
Often used in entertainment and carnival contexts
São Paulo
destaque, sucesso espetacular
Commonly used in business and tech industry contexts
Portugal
número espetacular, sucesso de destaque
Less commonly used; tends to be replaced with 'sucesso' or 'êxito'

Related Words

showstopperperformancespectacularimpressiveapplausesuccess

Related Idioms & Phrases

stop the show
bring down the house
steal the show
knock them dead
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