Surprise! We’ve put together a list of the top slang words for expressing surprise. Whether you’re looking to spice up your conversations or just want to stay up-to-date with the latest language trends, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to be shook as we unveil these mind-blowing expressions that are sure to leave you gobsmacked.
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1. Shocked
To be greatly surprised or amazed by something unexpected.
- For example, “I was shocked to find out that I won the lottery.”
- A person might say, “I was shocked to see my old friend after so many years.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was shocked when I heard the news of their engagement!”
2. Astonished
To be filled with a feeling of great surprise or wonder.
- For instance, “I was astonished by the magician’s incredible tricks.”
- A person might say, “I was astonished by the beautiful sunset.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was astonished to hear that she got promoted!”
3. Flabbergasted
To be extremely surprised or shocked to the point of being unable to speak.
- For example, “I was flabbergasted when I found out I won the contest.”
- A person might say, “I was flabbergasted by the incredible performance.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was flabbergasted to see the price of that luxury car!”
4. Stunned
To be temporarily unable to react or think properly due to shock or surprise.
- For instance, “I was stunned when I heard the unexpected news.”
- A person might say, “I was stunned by the breathtaking beauty of the landscape.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was stunned to see the incredible talent displayed on stage!”
5. Taken aback
To be surprised or shocked by something unexpected, causing a momentary pause or hesitation.
- For example, “I was taken aback by her sudden outburst.”
- A person might say, “I was taken aback by the unexpected turn of events.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was taken aback when I saw him at the party!”
6. Blown away
This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme surprise or awe. It suggests that something has had such a powerful impact on a person that it feels as if they have been physically blown away.
- For example, “I was completely blown away by the incredible performance of the singer.”
- Someone might say, “The beauty of the sunset was so breathtaking, it left me completely blown away.”
- A person might exclaim, “I was blown away when I found out I won the lottery!”
7. Speechless
When someone is speechless, it means they are so surprised or shocked that they are unable to find words to express their thoughts or emotions.
- For instance, “The announcement left me completely speechless.”
- A person might say, “I was speechless when I saw the incredible view from the top of the mountain.”
- Someone might respond to surprising news by saying, “I’m speechless, I never expected this!”
8. Thunderstruck
This term is used to describe a state of being so surprised or amazed that it feels as if one has been struck by thunder, leaving them stunned and unable to react.
- For example, “I was thunderstruck when I heard the news of their engagement.”
- A person might say, “I was absolutely thunderstruck by the incredible talent of the young pianist.”
- Someone might exclaim, “I was thunderstruck when I saw the amount of food they served at the buffet!”
9. Bowled over
When someone is bowled over, it means they are completely taken aback or overwhelmed by a surprising or shocking event or revelation.
- For instance, “I was bowled over by the generosity of their gift.”
- A person might say, “I was completely bowled over when I found out I got the job.”
- Someone might exclaim, “I was bowled over by the unexpected twist in the movie!”
10. Gobsmacked
This slang term, commonly used in British English, describes a state of being so surprised or astounded that one’s mouth drops open in shock.
- For example, “I was gobsmacked when I saw the size of the elephant.”
- A person might say, “I was absolutely gobsmacked by the surprise party they threw for me.”
- Someone might exclaim, “I was gobsmacked when I found out they had been secretly dating for a year!”
11. Dumbfounded
This term is used to describe a state of being so surprised or shocked that one is unable to speak or react. It implies a feeling of complete astonishment or disbelief.
- For example, “When she won the lottery, she was completely dumbfounded.”
- In a situation where someone receives unexpected news, they might say, “I was dumbfounded when I found out I got the job.”
- A person might express their amazement by saying, “I am absolutely dumbfounded by the talent displayed in this art exhibition.”
12. Startled
When someone is startled, they are caught off guard or surprised by something unexpected. It often involves a sudden or sharp reaction, such as jumping or gasping.
- For instance, “I was startled by the loud noise.”
- If someone sneaks up behind you and surprises you, you might say, “You startled me!”
- A person might describe their reaction to a sudden scare by saying, “I was so startled that I dropped my phone.”
13. Amazed
To be amazed means to be filled with wonder or astonishment. It implies a sense of being greatly impressed or surprised by something.
- For example, “I was amazed by the beautiful sunset.”
- If someone witnesses an incredible feat, they might exclaim, “I am amazed by your talent!”
- A person might express their astonishment by saying, “I am truly amazed at how technology has advanced.”
14. Bewildered
When someone is bewildered, they are confused or puzzled by something that is difficult to understand or explain. It suggests a state of being at a loss or uncertain about what to do or think.
- For instance, “She looked bewildered by the complex math problem.”
- If someone is given conflicting information, they might say, “I am completely bewildered about what to believe.”
- A person might express their confusion by saying, “I am utterly bewildered by this new software update.”
15. Taken by surprise
To be taken by surprise means to be unexpectedly and suddenly surprised by something. It implies being unprepared or not anticipating the event or situation.
- For example, “She was taken by surprise when her friends threw her a surprise party.”
- If someone receives an unexpected gift, they might say, “I was completely taken by surprise!”
- A person might describe their reaction to an unexpected turn of events by saying, “I was caught off guard and didn’t know how to respond.”
16. Knocked for a loop
This phrase is used to describe a state of being completely surprised or caught off guard. It implies that the person has been figuratively knocked off balance or disoriented by the surprise.
- For example, “When she found out she won the lottery, she was completely knocked for a loop.”
- If someone receives unexpected news, they might say, “I was really knocked for a loop when I heard about it.”
- A person might describe their reaction to a shocking event by saying, “I was so knocked for a loop that I couldn’t even speak.”
17. Flummoxed
This word is used to describe a state of being completely bewildered or confused, often as a result of surprise or shock. It implies a sense of being at a loss for what to do or how to react.
- For instance, “When she saw the surprise party, she was completely flummoxed.”
- If someone is unable to understand something, they might say, “I’m completely flummoxed by this math problem.”
- A person might describe their reaction to a complicated situation by saying, “I was so flummoxed that I didn’t know how to proceed.”
18. Astounded
This word is used to describe a state of being filled with wonder or astonishment. It implies a sense of being greatly impressed or shocked by something unexpected.
- For example, “She was astounded by the beautiful sunset.”
- If someone witnesses an incredible feat, they might say, “I’m absolutely astounded by their talent.”
- A person might describe their reaction to a remarkable achievement by saying, “I was astounded by their strength and determination.”
19. Stupefied
This word is used to describe a state of being rendered speechless or unable to think clearly due to surprise or shock. It implies a sense of being completely astonished or flabbergasted.
- For instance, “He was stupefied when he received the unexpected promotion.”
- If someone is unable to comprehend a shocking event, they might say, “I’m completely stupefied by what just happened.”
- A person might describe their reaction to a mind-blowing revelation by saying, “I was so stupefied that I couldn’t process the information.”
20. Jolted
This word is used to describe a sudden shock or surprise that causes a person to be abruptly shaken or disturbed. It implies a sudden and unexpected disruption of one’s state of mind or emotions.
- For example, “The loud noise jolted her out of her deep sleep.”
- If someone is caught off guard by a sudden event, they might say, “I was jolted by the unexpected turn of events.”
- A person might describe their reaction to a startling revelation by saying, “I was completely jolted by what I heard.”
21. Staggered
When someone is staggered, they are taken aback or caught off guard by something unexpected or surprising.
- For example, “I was staggered when I found out I won the lottery.”
- A person might say, “I was completely staggered by the news of her sudden death.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was staggered by the incredible talent displayed in the performance.”
22. Knocked for six
This phrase originates from the game of cricket, where getting hit by a ball and being sent out of the game is referred to as being “knocked for six.” In slang terms, it means being completely taken aback or shocked.
- For instance, “I was knocked for six when I heard about the sudden job loss.”
- A person might say, “The unexpected proposal really knocked me for six.”
- Another might exclaim, “The news of their engagement really knocked me for six!”
23. Caught off guard
When someone is caught off guard, they are taken by surprise or caught unprepared for a particular situation or event.
- For example, “His unexpected visit caught me off guard.”
- A person might say, “I was caught off guard by her sudden outburst.”
- Another might exclaim, “The sudden rainstorm caught us all off guard.”
24. Mind blown
When someone’s mind is blown, they are completely amazed or astounded by something, often to the point of feeling overwhelmed.
- For instance, “The special effects in that movie were mind-blowing.”
- A person might say, “I had my mind blown by the incredible talent of the performers.”
- Another might exclaim, “The scientific discovery left me with my mind blown!”
25. Jaw-dropping
When something is described as jaw-dropping, it means that it is extremely surprising or astonishing, to the point of causing one’s jaw to drop in disbelief.
- For example, “The view from the top of the mountain was jaw-dropping.”
- A person might say, “The amount of money they spent on that party was jaw-dropping.”
- Another might exclaim, “The acrobatics performance was absolutely jaw-dropping!”
26. Wowed
This term is used to express a high level of surprise or astonishment. It often implies being pleasantly surprised or impressed by something.
- For example, “I was wowed by the stunning performance of the acrobat.”
- A person might say, “The new restaurant wowed me with its delicious food and stylish decor.”
- In a review of a movie, someone might write, “The special effects in this film will leave you wowed.”
27. Baffled
When someone is baffled, they are completely puzzled or confused by something unexpected or difficult to understand.
- For instance, “I was baffled by the sudden disappearance of my keys.”
- A person might say, “I’m completely baffled by the complex instructions for assembling this furniture.”
- In a discussion about a confusing plot twist in a TV show, someone might comment, “I’m still baffled about what really happened.”
28. Overwhelmed
To be overwhelmed means to feel completely overcome by a strong emotion or a large amount of something.
- For example, “I was overwhelmed with joy when I received the good news.”
- A person might say, “I feel overwhelmed by the amount of work I have to do.”
- In a review of a concert, someone might write, “The band’s energetic performance left the audience overwhelmed with excitement.”
29. Taken by storm
This phrase means to be completely captivated or taken by surprise by something or someone.
- For instance, “The new artist’s music has taken the music industry by storm.”
- A person might say, “I was taken by storm by the breathtaking beauty of the landscape.”
- In a discussion about a viral video, someone might comment, “This video has taken the internet by storm.”
30. Shock and awe
This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme surprise or astonishment, often caused by something unexpected or extraordinary.
- For example, “The magician’s trick left the audience in a state of shock and awe.”
- A person might say, “The grand finale of the fireworks display was a moment of pure shock and awe.”
- In a review of a thrilling movie, someone might write, “The movie’s plot twists and action sequences will leave viewers in shock and awe.”
31. Knocked out
To be completely taken aback or astounded by something.
- For example, “I was knocked out when I found out I won the lottery.”
- A person might say, “His performance in the play knocked me out. He was incredible!”
- Another might exclaim, “I was knocked out when I saw the size of the dessert. It was huge!”
32. Mind-boggled
To be completely overwhelmed with surprise or confusion.
- For instance, “I was mind-boggled when I saw the intricate design of the building.”
- A person might say, “The magician’s trick left me mind-boggled. I have no idea how he did it.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was mind-boggled when I heard that she won the marathon. I didn’t even know she was a runner!”
33. Flustered
To feel overwhelmed or disoriented due to surprise or shock.
- For example, “I was flustered when I realized I had forgotten my keys.”
- A person might say, “I was so flustered when I saw my ex at the party. I didn’t know how to react.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was flustered when I received a surprise visit from my long-lost cousin.”
34. Dumbstruck
To be so surprised or shocked that one is unable to speak or react.
- For instance, “I was dumbstruck when I saw the incredible sunset.”
- A person might say, “I was dumbstruck when I heard the news. I couldn’t believe it.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was dumbstruck when I saw the size of the diamond ring. It was enormous!”
35. Shocked to the core
To be completely and deeply surprised or shocked.
- For example, “I was shocked to the core when I heard about the accident.”
- A person might say, “I was shocked to the core when I discovered the truth about my best friend.”
- Another might exclaim, “I was shocked to the core when I found out I had won the scholarship. I never thought I had a chance!”
36. Mind-blown
When something is so astonishing or unexpected that it overwhelms your mind with disbelief or wonder.
- For example, “I just watched a magic trick that left me mind-blown.”
- A person might say, “The plot twist in that movie had me mind-blown.”
- Another might exclaim, “I can’t believe I won the lottery! I’m mind-blown!”
37. Dazed
When you are caught off guard and feel a sense of confusion or disorientation.
- For instance, “I was so dazed when I found out I got accepted into my dream school.”
- Someone might say, “After the car accident, I was dazed and didn’t know what had happened.”
- Another might describe their reaction to unexpected news as, “I was completely dazed and couldn’t process what I had just heard.”
38. Awestruck
When you are so amazed or impressed by something that it leaves you in a state of awe.
- For example, “I was awestruck by the beauty of the sunset.”
- Someone might say, “Standing in front of the Grand Canyon, I felt awestruck by its vastness.”
- Another might describe their reaction to a breathtaking performance as, “The singer’s voice left me awestruck.”
39. Nonplussed
When you are caught off guard and don’t know how to respond.
- For instance, “I was nonplussed when my boss unexpectedly gave me a promotion.”
- Someone might say, “When I saw my ex at the party, I was completely nonplussed.”
- Another might describe their reaction to a strange situation as, “I was nonplussed by the sudden appearance of a UFO.”
40. Taken unawares
When something happens unexpectedly and catches you by surprise.
- For example, “I was taken unawares when my friends threw me a surprise birthday party.”
- Someone might say, “The sudden rainstorm took us all unawares.”
- Another might describe their reaction to a startling noise as, “I was taken unawares by the loud bang.”
41. Shell-shocked
This term describes a state of shock or disbelief, often caused by a sudden and unexpected event or revelation. It implies being mentally or emotionally stunned.
- For example, “After winning the lottery, she was shell-shocked and couldn’t believe her luck.”
- In a conversation about a shocking news headline, someone might say, “I was completely shell-shocked when I read about the accident.”
- A person might describe their reaction to a surprise party as, “I walked into the room and was totally shell-shocked.”
42. Jaws dropped
This phrase is used to describe a state of extreme surprise or shock, often depicted by one’s mouth dropping open in disbelief.
- For instance, “When she heard the news, her jaws dropped in astonishment.”
- A person might say, “Everyone’s jaws dropped when the magician made the rabbit disappear.”
- In a conversation about a shocking twist in a movie, someone might exclaim, “My jaws dropped when I saw the ending!”
43. Wide-eyed
This term describes a state of being surprised or astonished, often characterized by one’s eyes widening in response to the unexpected.
- For example, “When she saw the fireworks, she was wide-eyed with amazement.”
- A person might say, “I was wide-eyed when I saw the beautiful sunset.”
- In a conversation about an incredible feat, someone might say, “I was wide-eyed when I saw the acrobat’s performance.”
44. Taken off guard
This phrase means to be caught unprepared or unexpectedly surprised by something or someone.
- For instance, “The sudden loud noise took me off guard.”
- A person might say, “She was taken off guard when her friend showed up unannounced.”
- In a conversation about a surprising question, someone might say, “I was taken off guard by the interviewer’s unexpected inquiry.”
45. Discombobulated
This word describes a state of being confused, disoriented, or thrown off balance due to a surprising or unexpected situation.
- For example, “After the roller coaster ride, she felt discombobulated.”
- A person might say, “I was completely discombobulated when I got lost in the unfamiliar city.”
- In a conversation about a chaotic event, someone might say, “The sudden change in plans left everyone feeling discombobulated.”