Shocker: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe news or an event that is extremely surprising and often disturbing. This word carries a slightly negative connotation.

• The news of his resignation was a real shocker.
• Her decision to drop out of school came as a shocker to her parents.

A more general term that can describe any event or fact that is unexpected, whether positive or negative. It is less intense than 'shocker' or 'bombshell'.

• They threw a surprise party for her birthday.
• It was a pleasant surprise to see him at the event.

Typically used to describe news or a piece of information that is surprising and unexpected, often with significant impact. It usually has a dramatic connotation.

• The announcement of their divorce was a bombshell.
• They dropped a bombshell when they revealed the company was going bankrupt.

Commonly used to describe a previously unknown fact that has been disclosed, often involving some kind of uncovering or enlightenment.

• His book is full of startling revelations about the government.
• The revelation of the true nature of their relationship shocked everyone.

This word is often used in a casual or informal setting to describe something very surprising or astonishing that catches someone off guard. It can have a negative tone depending on the situation.

• The latest episode of the series was a real shocker; I didn't see that coming at all!
• When he announced his resignation, it was a shocker to everyone in the office.

The word 'twist' is a more general term that can be used in various contexts to describe an unexpected change of events. While it is commonly used in storytelling, it can also apply to real-life situations.

• There was an unexpected twist in the investigation when new evidence emerged.
• The story took a shocking twist just when I thought I had everything figured out.

This phrase is used when discussing the conclusion of a story that contains an unexpected turn of events or an unforeseen conclusion. It is typically used in literature, film, or other forms of storytelling.

• The book had a surprise ending that left me thinking about it for days.
• Everyone was talking about the surprise ending to the series finale; it was so unexpected!

This term is commonly used in discussions related to narratives, such as books, movies, or television shows. It specifically refers to an unexpected development in the storyline that changes the direction or understanding of the plot.

• The movie was full of unexpected plot twists that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
• I love how the author included a plot twist at the end of the novel; it completely changed my perspective on the story.

Used to describe an event or news that is highly surprising and often carries a negative connotation.

• The news of the company's bankruptcy was a real shocker for everyone.
• It was a shocker when they announced the sudden cancellation of the festival.

Commonly used in a sports context to describe a significant and surprising defeat of a favored competitor by an underdog, often carries a dramatic tone.

• The heavyweight boxer suffered an upset against the less experienced fighter.
• Their victory was a major upset in the world of professional tennis.

Typically used in sports or competitions when a competitor wins against all odds, but it does not usually carry a negative connotation.

• Her surprise win in the 100-meter dash left the audience in awe.
• The team's surprise win in the finals brought immense joy to their fans.

Describes a victory that was not anticipated and is often used in formal or neutral contexts.

• The underdog team's unexpected victory was a highlight of the tournament.
• He achieved an unexpected victory in the election against a well-known opponent.