Top 56 Slang For Surprising – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing surprise in today’s fast-paced world, language evolves just as quickly. From “shook” to “mind blown,” our team has curated a list of the most trendy and up-to-date slang for surprising moments. Get ready to level up your vocab game and stay ahead of the curve with these unexpected linguistic gems.

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1. Mind-blowing

This term is used to describe something that is so amazing or extraordinary that it is difficult to comprehend or process.

For example, “The special effects in that movie were mind-blowing.”
A person might say, “I just read a mind-blowing article about the future of technology.”
Another might exclaim, “The magician’s tricks were absolutely mind-blowing!”

2. Shocking

This word is used to describe something that is highly unexpected or causes a strong emotional reaction of surprise or disbelief.

For instance, “The news of the scandal was shocking to everyone.”
A person might say, “I had a shocking encounter with a celebrity at the grocery store.”
Another might exclaim, “The plot twist in the movie was absolutely shocking!”

3. Jaw-dropping

This term is used to describe something that is so astonishing or impressive that it leaves one’s mouth hanging open in shock or awe.

For example, “The view from the top of the mountain was jaw-dropping.”
A person might say, “The singer’s performance was absolutely jaw-dropping.”
Another might exclaim, “The athlete’s record-breaking feat was jaw-dropping!”

4. Unbelievable

This word is used to describe something that is so extraordinary or surprising that it is difficult to believe or accept as true.

For instance, “The story of her survival against all odds was unbelievable.”
A person might say, “I just witnessed an unbelievable act of kindness.”
Another might exclaim, “The magician’s tricks were absolutely unbelievable!”

5. Stunned

This term is used to describe the state of being in a state of shock or surprise, often unable to react or speak.

For example, “I was stunned when I found out I won the lottery.”
A person might say, “I was completely stunned by the news of their engagement.”
Another might exclaim, “I was stunned by the beauty of the sunset!”

6. Flabbergasted

To be extremely surprised or shocked, often to the point of being speechless. “Flabbergasted” is a more intense form of surprise.

For example, “I was absolutely flabbergasted when I won the lottery.”
A person might say, “I was flabbergasted when I found out she was pregnant.”
Another might exclaim, “I was flabbergasted by the incredible talent of the performers.”

7. Astonishing

To be extremely surprising or impressive. “Astonishing” suggests a sense of wonder and disbelief.

For instance, “Her performance was astonishing; I’ve never seen anything like it.”
A person might say, “The view from the top of the mountain was astonishing.”
Another might exclaim, “The magician’s tricks were astonishing; I couldn’t figure out how he did them!”

8. Startling

To be surprising or shocking, often causing a sudden reaction or fright. “Startling” implies a sudden and unexpected nature of the surprise.

For example, “The loud noise was startling and made me jump.”
A person might say, “The sudden change in weather was startling; I wasn’t prepared for it.”
Another might exclaim, “The news of their breakup was startling; I had no idea they were having issues.”

9. Eye-popping

To be extremely surprising or impressive, often visually stunning. “Eye-popping” suggests that something is so surprising that it catches your attention immediately.

For instance, “The fireworks display was eye-popping; the colors and patterns were incredible.”
A person might say, “The price of the designer handbag was eye-popping; I couldn’t believe how expensive it was.”
Another might exclaim, “The special effects in the movie were eye-popping; it felt like I was in another world!”

10. Astounding

To be extremely surprising or impressive, often to the point of being difficult to believe. “Astounding” conveys a sense of awe and disbelief.

For example, “The magician’s tricks were astounding; I couldn’t figure out how he did them.”
A person might say, “The amount of money they raised for charity was astounding; it shows the generosity of people.”
Another might exclaim, “The view from the top of the mountain was astounding; it took my breath away!”

11. Unexpected

Something that happens or is done without being anticipated or predicted. It catches people off guard and is often seen as surprising or shocking.

For example, “Her sudden resignation was completely unexpected.”
In a conversation about a plot twist in a movie, someone might say, “The unexpected turn of events had me on the edge of my seat.”
A person might exclaim, “I received an unexpected gift in the mail today!”

12. Breathtaking

Something that is so impressive or awe-inspiring that it takes one’s breath away. It is often used to describe something visually stunning or emotionally overwhelming.

For instance, “The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking.”
In a discussion about a live performance, someone might say, “The singer’s voice was absolutely breathtaking.”
A person might comment, “The sunset over the ocean was truly breathtaking.”

13. Incredible

Something that is hard to believe because it is so extraordinary or amazing. It is used to describe something that is beyond what is ordinary or expected.

For example, “She has an incredible talent for playing the piano.”
In a conversation about a sports achievement, someone might say, “His performance was absolutely incredible.”
A person might exclaim, “I just saw the most incredible magic trick!”

14. Stupefying

Something that is so shocking or astonishing that it leaves people feeling stunned or unable to think clearly. It is often used to describe something that is beyond comprehension or belief.

For instance, “The magician’s tricks were stupefying.”
In a discussion about a scientific discovery, someone might say, “The implications of this research are stupefying.”
A person might comment, “The amount of money he won in the lottery is stupefying!”

15. Wowed

To be amazed or deeply impressed by something. It is often used to describe a strong positive reaction to something surprising or extraordinary.

For example, “The audience was wowed by the acrobat’s performance.”
In a conversation about a new technology, someone might say, “I was wowed by the capabilities of the latest smartphone.”
A person might exclaim, “I was completely wowed by the fireworks display!”

16. Flummoxed

When someone is flummoxed, they are completely perplexed or puzzled by a situation or problem.

For example, “I was flummoxed by the math problem and couldn’t figure out the solution.”
A person might say, “Her unexpected response left me flummoxed and unsure of how to proceed.”
In a conversation about a difficult riddle, someone might admit, “I’m completely flummoxed by this riddle. I can’t seem to find the answer.”

17. Dumbfounded

When someone is dumbfounded, they are extremely surprised or shocked to the point of being speechless.

For instance, “I was dumbfounded when I won the lottery. I couldn’t believe my luck.”
A person might say, “I was dumbfounded by the news of her sudden resignation. I never saw it coming.”
In a discussion about a surprising plot twist in a movie, someone might exclaim, “I was completely dumbfounded by the unexpected turn of events!”

18. Startled

When someone is startled, they experience a sudden shock or surprise that catches them off guard.

For example, “I was startled by the loud noise and jumped out of my chair.”
A person might say, “The unexpected visitor startled me when they appeared at my doorstep.”
In a conversation about a scary movie, someone might admit, “I’m easily startled by jump scares in horror films.”

19. Amazed

When someone is amazed, they are in a state of awe or wonder due to something extraordinary or surprising.

For instance, “I was amazed by the breathtaking view from the mountaintop.”
A person might say, “I’m always amazed by the talent of street performers. They can do incredible things.”
In a discussion about a remarkable achievement, someone might express, “I’m amazed by the dedication and hard work it took to accomplish such a feat.”

20. Awe-inspiring

When something is awe-inspiring, it evokes a sense of wonder, admiration, or reverence due to its grandeur or impressiveness.

For example, “The majestic waterfall was truly awe-inspiring.”
A person might say, “The performance by the ballet troupe was awe-inspiring. It left the audience in awe.”
In a conversation about a breathtaking natural phenomenon, someone might exclaim, “The Northern Lights are absolutely awe-inspiring!”

21. Staggering

This word is used to describe something that is extremely surprising or impressive. It implies a sense of disbelief or awe.

For example, “The amount of money spent on the project was staggering.”
Someone might say, “I just read a staggering statistic about global warming.”
A person might react with, “I am absolutely staggering at the news of their engagement.”

22. Mind-boggling

This slang term is used to describe something that is so surprising or confusing that it is difficult to comprehend or understand.

For instance, “The complexity of the math problem was mind-boggling.”
A person might say, “I just saw a mind-boggling magic trick that left me speechless.”
Someone might react with, “The amount of talent she has is mind-boggling.”

23. Wow-worthy

This slang term is used to describe something that is so impressive or surprising that it elicits a “wow” reaction.

For example, “The fireworks display was absolutely wow-worthy.”
A person might say, “I just saw a wow-worthy performance by a street artist.”
Someone might react with, “The view from the top of the mountain was truly wow-worthy.”

24. Surprised

This word is used to describe the feeling of being caught off guard or experiencing something unexpected.

For instance, “I was surprised by the gift she gave me.”
A person might say, “I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of the game.”
Someone might react with, “I am genuinely surprised by his sudden success.”

25. Shocked

This word is used to describe the feeling of being greatly surprised or taken aback by something.

For example, “I was shocked to hear the news of their breakup.”
A person might say, “I was shocked by the sudden turn of events.”
Someone might react with, “I am completely shocked by the results of the election.”

26. Thunderstruck

To be completely shocked or amazed by something. The term “thunderstruck” implies a level of surprise that is so intense it feels like being struck by lightning.

For example, “I was thunderstruck when I found out I won the lottery.”
A person might say, “The news of her sudden death left me thunderstruck.”
Another might exclaim, “I was thunderstruck when I saw the incredible sunset.”

27. Knocked for six

To be completely taken aback or overwhelmed by something. The term “knocked for six” comes from the sport of cricket, where if a batsman is hit by the ball and knocked to the ground, it is considered a major surprise.

For instance, “The unexpected news of her promotion knocked me for six.”
A person might say, “I was knocked for six when he proposed to me.”
Another might exclaim, “The twist ending of the movie really knocked me for six.”

28. Eye-opening

To be enlightening or surprising in a way that broadens one’s perspective or understanding. The term “eye-opening” refers to an experience or information that opens up new possibilities or challenges previously held beliefs.

For example, “The documentary on climate change was truly eye-opening.”
A person might say, “Traveling to a different country can be a very eye-opening experience.”
Another might exclaim, “Reading that book was an eye-opening journey into a different culture.”

29. Flabbergasting

To be extremely surprising or shocking to the point of leaving one speechless. The term “flabbergasting” suggests a level of astonishment that is so intense it leaves a person unable to react or respond.

For instance, “The magician’s trick was absolutely flabbergasting.”
A person might say, “The size of the crowd at the concert was flabbergasting.”
Another might exclaim, “The news of her sudden resignation was completely flabbergasting.”

30. Striking

To be visually or emotionally impactful in a way that catches one’s attention. The term “striking” can also imply surprise or astonishment at the level of impact or intensity.

For example, “The painting’s use of color was striking.”
A person might say, “The actress gave a striking performance in the play.”
Another might exclaim, “The thunderstorm was accompanied by striking lightning.”

31. Wondrous

This word is used to describe something that is awe-inspiring or astonishing. It emphasizes a sense of wonder and amazement.

For example, “The view from the top of the mountain was wondrous.”
A person might exclaim, “That magic trick was absolutely wondrous!”
Another might say, “The wondrous beauty of the Northern Lights left me speechless.”

32. Phenomenal

This word is used to describe something that is exceptionally impressive or remarkable. It conveys a sense of astonishment and admiration.

For instance, “The concert last night was absolutely phenomenal.”
A person might say, “The athlete’s performance was truly phenomenal.”
Another might exclaim, “That cake you made is phenomenal!”

33. Remarkable

This word is used to describe something that is worthy of attention or admiration due to its exceptional qualities or achievements. It emphasizes the unusual or extraordinary nature of something.

For example, “The team’s comeback victory was remarkable.”
A person might say, “Her ability to speak multiple languages is truly remarkable.”
Another might comment, “The level of detail in this artwork is remarkable.”

34. Impressive

This word is used to describe something that evokes admiration or respect due to its notable qualities or achievements. It emphasizes the impact or effect that something has on others.

For instance, “The acrobat’s performance was incredibly impressive.”
A person might say, “The new skyscraper is an impressive feat of engineering.”
Another might comment, “The artist’s skill is truly impressive.”

35. Electrifying

This word is used to describe something that is exciting or exhilarating, often causing a surge of energy or enthusiasm. It conveys a sense of intense excitement or stimulation.

For example, “The live concert was an electrifying experience.”
A person might say, “The roller coaster ride was absolutely electrifying.”
Another might exclaim, “The final play of the game was electrifying!”

36. Overwhelming

This term is used to describe something that is so impressive or astonishing that it feels overpowering or difficult to comprehend.

For example, “The amount of support I received for my project was overwhelming.”
A person might say, “The beauty of the sunset was overwhelming.”
In a discussion about a powerful performance, someone might comment, “The actor’s portrayal was overwhelming.”

37. Inconceivable

This term is used to describe something that is so unbelievable or impossible to imagine that it is beyond comprehension.

For instance, “The idea that humans could fly was inconceivable centuries ago.”
A person might exclaim, “The amount of food they served at the buffet was inconceivable!”
In a discussion about a shocking plot twist, someone might say, “The ending of that movie was inconceivable.”

38. Unforeseen

This term is used to describe something that was not expected or foreseen.

For example, “The sudden rainstorm was unforeseen, and everyone got soaked.”
A person might say, “The unforeseen circumstances forced us to change our plans.”
In a discussion about a surprising turn of events, someone might comment, “The team’s victory was unforeseen by many.”

39. Mind-blown

This term is used to describe a feeling of being astounded or amazed to the point that one’s mind feels blown or overwhelmed.

For instance, “The magician’s trick left the audience mind-blown.”
A person might say, “I just watched the most mind-blowing movie.”
In a discussion about a mind-blowing scientific discovery, someone might exclaim, “The implications of this research are mind-blown!”

40. Blown away

This term is used to describe a feeling of being extremely impressed or surprised by something.

For example, “I was blown away by the talent of the young musician.”
A person might say, “The view from the mountaintop blew me away.”
In a discussion about a breathtaking performance, someone might comment, “The singer’s voice blew me away.”

41. Taken aback

When someone is taken aback, they are caught off guard or surprised by something unexpected. It can refer to a physical reaction, such as stepping back or stumbling, or an emotional response of shock or disbelief.

For example, “I was taken aback when I saw how much weight he had lost.”
A person might say, “I was completely taken aback by her sudden outburst.”
Another might exclaim, “I was taken aback when I found out I won the lottery!”

42. Speechless

When someone is speechless, they are so surprised or shocked that they are unable to find words to express their emotions or thoughts. It is a common reaction to extreme or unexpected situations.

For instance, “I was speechless when I saw the breathtaking view from the top of the mountain.”
A person might say, “I was speechless when she told me she was pregnant.”
Another might exclaim, “I was speechless when I found out I got the job!”

43. Bowled over

When someone is bowled over, they are completely surprised or overwhelmed by something. The phrase comes from the image of being knocked down or over like a bowling pin by the force of the surprise.

For example, “I was bowled over by the generosity of my friends on my birthday.”
A person might say, “I was completely bowled over when I won the award.”
Another might exclaim, “I was bowled over by the incredible talent of the performers.”

44. Caught off guard

When someone is caught off guard, they are surprised or unprepared for something that happens unexpectedly. It can refer to a physical or mental state of being taken by surprise.

For instance, “I was caught off guard when he suddenly asked me to marry him.”
A person might say, “I was caught off guard by her sudden change in behavior.”
Another might exclaim, “I was caught off guard by the news of their breakup!”

45. Astounded

When someone is astounded, they are amazed or shocked by something that exceeds their expectations or understanding. It is a strong feeling of surprise that can be positive or negative.

For example, “I was astounded by the beauty of the sunset.”
A person might say, “I was astounded by the incredible talent of the young pianist.”
Another might exclaim, “I was astounded by the amount of money he spent on that car!”

46. Gobsmacked

To be completely astonished or taken aback by something.

For example, “I was gobsmacked when I found out I won the lottery.”
A person might say, “I was absolutely gobsmacked when I saw my favorite celebrity in person.”
Another might exclaim, “I was gobsmacked by the incredible talent displayed in the performance.”

47. Floored

To be so surprised or impressed that one is figuratively knocked to the ground.

For instance, “I was floored by the generosity of my friends.”
A person might say, “The incredible talent of the singer left me floored.”
Another might exclaim, “I was floored by the stunning beauty of the sunset.”

48. Taken by surprise

To be unexpectedly surprised or shocked by something.

For example, “I was taken by surprise when my partner proposed to me.”
A person might say, “The sudden change in weather took me by surprise.”
Another might exclaim, “I was taken by surprise by the plot twist in the movie.”

49. Staggered

To be deeply shocked or amazed by something.

For instance, “I was staggered by the amount of money I won.”
A person might say, “The level of talent displayed in the performance left me staggered.”
Another might exclaim, “I was staggered by the unexpected turn of events.”

50. Awestruck

To be overwhelmed with a feeling of reverence, admiration, or fear.

For example, “I was awestruck by the beauty of the Grand Canyon.”
A person might say, “The breathtaking performance left the audience awestruck.”
Another might exclaim, “I was awestruck by the magnitude of the accomplishment.”

51. Bewildered

When someone is bewildered, they are completely puzzled or unsure about something. It can also refer to a state of being overwhelmed or unable to comprehend a situation.

For example, “She looked bewildered when she found out she won the lottery.”
A person might say, “I was completely bewildered by the sudden turn of events.”
Another might ask, “Have you ever been so bewildered that you didn’t know what to do?”

52. Stupefied

When someone is stupefied, they are extremely surprised or shocked to the point of being speechless or unable to react. It can also refer to a state of being amazed or in awe.

For instance, “She was stupefied by the incredible magic trick.”
A person might say, “I was completely stupefied when I saw the surprise party.”
Another might exclaim, “I am stupefied by the talent of this young musician!”

53. Thunderbolt

A thunderbolt refers to a surprising or unexpected event or piece of news that has a significant impact. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden realization or moment of insight.

For example, “The announcement of their engagement was a thunderbolt for everyone.”
A person might say, “The thunderbolt of inspiration struck me in the middle of the night.”
Another might comment, “The thunderbolt of truth hit me when I realized I had been living a lie.”

54. Mind-boggled

When someone is mind-boggled, they are completely amazed or astounded by something. It can also refer to a state of being overwhelmed by the complexity or incomprehensibility of a situation.

For instance, “I was mind-boggled by the intricate details of the artwork.”
A person might say, “The mind-boggling statistics left me speechless.”
Another might exclaim, “I am mind-boggled by the incredible advancements in technology!”

55. Surprised as hell

When someone is surprised as hell, they are extremely surprised or shocked. The use of “as hell” emphasizes the intensity of the surprise.

For example, “I was surprised as hell when I found out I got the job.”
A person might say, “He was surprised as hell to see his favorite celebrity at the restaurant.”
Another might comment, “I am surprised as hell that they managed to keep it a secret for so long!”

56. Stunned silence

When something unexpected or shocking happens, it can leave people speechless and unable to react. This is often referred to as “stunned silence.”

For example, when the magician pulled a rabbit out of his hat, the audience was left in stunned silence.
After hearing the surprising news, there was a moment of stunned silence before everyone started cheering.
The unexpected twist in the movie left the entire theater in stunned silence.