Startling: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.