out of sight

Synonym discussion

Sense: idiom/1

All four expressions describe strong approval of something good, but they differ in register and age. 'Awesome' (B1) is the most widely used across all ages in modern informal English, covering everything from food to experiences. 'Incredible' (B1–B2) is slightly more formal and can also carry a sense of surprise or disbelief alongside approval. 'Fantastic' (A2–B1) is a safe, all-purpose positive adjective that works in both casual and semi-formal settings. 'Out of sight' is the most restricted: it is an idiom (not an adjective), strongly associated with earlier decades (1960s–80s), and may sound dated to younger speakers. A young person might say 'That concert was awesome', while an older speaker reminiscing might say 'That concert was out of sight!' For learners, 'awesome' or 'fantastic' are safer choices in everyday conversation.

Etymology

The phrase 'out of sight' originated in literal spatial English, meaning 'not visible' or 'hidden from view'. In informal American English of the late 19th century, it began to take on figurative meanings: something 'out of sight' (beyond what you can see) became 'beyond reach' or 'beyond comparison'. By the 1950s–60s, it had fully developed into slang for 'excellent' or 'extremely good', popularised in youth culture, jazz circles, and later in surfing and skateboarding subcultures. The 'too expensive' sense (late 20th century) follows the same logic: a price that is 'out of sight' is one that has gone beyond what a normal person can see, or reach — i.e., afford.