show-stopper
Brings down house
A show-stopper is a performance or act so spectacular that it halts the proceedings—originally because applause prevented the show from continuing.
The term now applies to anything remarkably impressive or, conversely, to a problem so severe it brings progress to a halt: The budget shortfall is a real show-stopper for the project.
In software development, a show-stopper bug is one critical enough to delay a release.
Eye-catching focal item
- head-turnerOne who commands stares
- eye-catchingImmediately noticeable, visually
- glamorousAlluringly stylish and exciting
- gorgeousStrikingly beautiful
striking · red carpet · couture · ensemble · gown · accessory · runway · designer
Astonishingly beautiful or exciting
- spectacularStrikingly impressive to behold
- stunningExtremely impressive or beautiful
- jaw-droppingExtremely surprising or impressive
- dazzlingOverwhelmingly bright or impressive
amazing · phenomenal · extraordinary · incredible · striking · awe-inspiring · magnificent · captivating
Unacceptable condition that ends talks
- blockerSomething that obstructs
- snagUnforeseen complication
- bottleneckConstriction limiting throughput
- setbackReverse in progress
hurdle · roadblock · impediment · hindrance · stumbling block · complication · hitch · holdup
Audience-demanded extra performance
- ovationExtended audience applause
- spotlightConcentrated illumination source
- applauseCollective hand-clapping approval
- curtain callPost-show audience acknowledgment
standing ovation · theater · Broadway · marquee · finale · headliner · star turn · prima donna
statement piece
Eye-catching focal item
- head-turnerOne who commands stares
- eye-catchingImmediately noticeable, visually
- glamorousAlluringly stylish and exciting
gorgeous · striking · red carpet · couture · ensemble · gown · accessory · runway · designer · showpiece
breathtaking
Astonishingly beautiful or exciting
- spectacularStrikingly impressive to behold
- stunningExtremely impressive or beautiful
- jaw-droppingExtremely surprising or impressive
dazzling · amazing · phenomenal · extraordinary · incredible · striking · awe-inspiring · magnificent · captivating · enthralling
dealbreaker
Unacceptable condition that ends talks
- blockerSomething that obstructs
- snagUnforeseen complication
- bottleneckConstriction limiting throughput
setback · hurdle · roadblock · impediment · hindrance · stumbling block · complication · hitch · holdup · wrench
encore
Audience-demanded extra performance
- ovationExtended audience applause
- spotlightConcentrated illumination source
- applauseCollective hand-clapping approval
curtain call · standing ovation · theater · Broadway · marquee · finale · headliner · star turn · prima donna · diva
show-stopperfiller
Substance closing gaps
throwaway · non-event · afterthought · background noise · wallpaper