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Startling: meaning, definitions and examples

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startling

 

[ˈstɑːrtlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

used to describe something that causes a sudden feeling of shock or surprise

Causing sudden shock or surprise; strikingly impressive

Synonyms

amazing, astonishing, shocking, surprising.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
startling

Use when something suddenly catches attention and often causes surprise or alarm.

  • The startling news of the fire spread quickly through the town.
  • Her startling revelation left everyone in the room speechless.
surprising

Used to describe something unexpected but not necessarily extreme or alarming.

  • The test results were surprising, given how little he had studied.
  • It was surprising to see her at the party.
shocking

Best used when something is very surprising and usually has a negative or disturbing connotation.

  • The results of the election were shocking to many.
  • The movie contains some shocking scenes.
astonishing

Appropriate when referring to something that is very surprising, often to a degree that is hard to believe.

  • His recovery from the illness was nothing short of astonishing.
  • It is astonishing how quickly technology is advancing.
amazing

Used to describe something extremely good, impressive, or wonderful.

  • The view from the top of the mountain was simply amazing.
  • She did an amazing job on her presentation.

Examples of usage

  • The sudden loud noise was startling.
  • Her startling announcement left everyone speechless.
  • The startling revelation changed everything.
  • The startling statistics showed the true extent of the problem.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'styrhtan,' meaning to leap or startle.
  • It evolved through Middle English, where it retained a similar meaning related to sudden movements.

Psychology

  • Surprises can trigger a quick response in the brain, causing a rush of adrenaline.
  • This reaction is part of the body's 'fight or flight' response, preparing you to react to unexpected events.

Pop Culture

  • Startling moments are often used in horror movies to create suspense and suspenseful atmosphere.
  • Jump scares are a popular technique in films to elicit a startling reaction from the audience.

Literature

  • Startling twists in stories can keep readers engaged and provoke strong emotional responses.
  • Authors often use startling events to reveal character traits or key plot points unexpectedly.

Daily Life

  • Everyday situations, like sudden loud noises or unexpected visitors, can lead to startling experiences.
  • Verbal surprises, such as unexpected compliments or news, can also be startling and elicit strong reactions.

Translations

Translations of the word "startling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 surpreendente

🇮🇳 चौंकाने वाला

🇩🇪 erschreckend

🇮🇩 mengejutkan

🇺🇦 вражаючий

🇵🇱 zaskakujący

🇯🇵 驚くべき (おどろくべき)

🇫🇷 étonnant

🇪🇸 sorprendente

🇹🇷 şaşırtıcı

🇰🇷 놀라운

🇸🇦 مذهل

🇨🇿 ohromující

🇸🇰 prekvapujúci

🇨🇳 惊人的 (jīng rén de)

🇸🇮 presenetljiv

🇮🇸 undraverður

🇰🇿 керемет

🇬🇪 გაკვირვებული

🇦🇿 təəccübləndirici

🇲🇽 sorprendente

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,705 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.