Awe: meaning, definitions and examples

A feeling of respect mixed with fear or wonder. It is often used when confronted by something very powerful or grand.

• She gazed in awe at the majestic mountains
• The little boy watched in awe as the fireworks lit up the sky

A feeling of amazement and curiosity about something extraordinary or new.

• The children stared in wonder at the circus performers
• His eyes were filled with wonder as he explored the museum

A feeling of great respect and approval for someone or something. It is typically positive without any element of fear.

• He has always had great admiration for his mentor
• The crowd showed their admiration by applauding loudly

Deep respect for someone or something, often with a religious or solemn connotation.

• The followers showed reverence during the prayer
• She spoke of her grandmother with great reverence

This word is used to describe a feeling of great respect mixed with fear or wonder. It is more formal and can also have a slightly negative connotation if the fear aspect is emphasized.

• The majestic mountains filled him with awe
• She gazed in awe at the massive structure

This word is used to express a feeling of great surprise or wonder in a more positive and casual way. It is often used in everyday situations when something unexpected and impressive happens.

• Her dance performance left the audience in amazement
• He watched in amazement as the magician performed his tricks

This descriptive term is used to depict something that causes a deep sense of wonder or admiration, often related to natural beauty, impressive achievements, or grandeur. It generally carries a positive connotation.

• The view from the top of the mountain was awe-inspiring
• The bravery of the firefighters was truly awe-inspiring

A more modern, informal term often used to describe something or someone extremely impressive, cool, or enjoyable. It is typically used in a very positive and enthusiastic manner.

• His skills on the skateboard are pure awesomeness
• The movie's special effects were a display of pure awesomeness

Use 'awe' when you are describing a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder about something very powerful, grand, or magnificent.

• The grandeur of the mountains filled her with awe.
• He looked at the ancient ruins in awe.

Choose 'amaze' when you want to express a feeling of great surprise or wonder, often in a positive sense.

• The magician's tricks never fail to amaze the audience.
• It always amazes me how fast technology advances.

'Astonish' is suitable when you need to convey being greatly surprised or impressed by something unexpected.

• Her sudden decision to move abroad astonished everyone.
• The rapidity of his recovery astonished the doctors.

'Impress' is appropriate when you are talking about making someone admire something or someone, often due to a skill, quality, or achievement.

• He managed to impress the interviewers with his extensive knowledge.
• The speech was designed to impress the audience.