Surprisingly: meaning, definitions and examples
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surprisingly
[səˈpraɪzɪŋli ]
Definitions
in a surprising manner
In a way that causes someone to feel surprised by being unexpected or unusual.
Synonyms
amazingly, astonishingly, remarkably, unexpectedly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| surprisingly |
Use 'surprisingly' when something happens in a way that is not expected, often with a mild level of surprise.
|
| unexpectedly |
Use 'unexpectedly' when something happens without warning or anticipation, often abruptly.
|
| astonishingly |
Use 'astonishingly' when something is so surprising that it almost seems unbelievable. It emphasizes a high level of shock or awe.
|
| amazingly |
Use 'amazingly' when something happens in an impressive or extraordinary way. It often conveys a sense of wonder.
|
| remarkably |
Use 'remarkably' to highlight something that is unusually or strikingly great or good.
|
Examples of usage
- He did surprisingly well in the exam.
- The movie was surprisingly good.
causing surprise or astonishment
Causing someone to feel surprised by being unexpected or unusual.
Synonyms
amazing, astonishing, startling, unexpected.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| surprisingly |
Used when something happens that is unusual or not anticipated.
|
| unexpected |
Used when describing something that happens without being predicted or anticipated.
|
| astonishing |
Used for something that is so surprising that it is almost unbelievable.
|
| amazing |
Used to describe something that is extremely good, impressive, or enjoyable.
|
| startling |
Used when something causes a sudden shock or alarm.
|
Examples of usage
- She gave a surprisingly good performance.
- It was a surprisingly warm day for November.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Old French 'surprendre', meaning 'to seize' or 'take over'.
- The root 'prise' means 'taking' – showing how a surprise can take you off guard!
- The suffix '-ly' transforms it into an adverb, describing how an action happens.
Psychology
- Unexpected events can trigger strong emotional responses, often linked to the element of surprise.
- Surprises can enhance learning by creating memorable moments that capture attention.
- Humans tend to remember surprising events better than those that are expected, due to increased dopamine production.
Pop Culture
- Many films and books utilize plot twists, turning events 'surprisingly' to keep audiences engaged.
- Reality TV often centers around surprising moments to create drama and excitement.
- The phrase 'surprise ending' is a common trope in storytelling, designed to shock or delight the audience.
Literature
- Classical literature often plays with expectations, leading to surprisingly different conclusions than readers anticipate.
- Modern thrillers frequently rely on surprising twists to maintain suspense and intrigue.
- 'Surprisingly' adds an element of contrast to writing, helping to highlight unexpected developments in narratives.
Science
- Studies show that the brain processes unexpected stimuli differently, highlighting their importance in learning.
- Surprising results in scientific experiments can lead to breakthroughs and new theories.
- The 'surprise' factor in experiments can influence participants' responses, often leading to more authentic reactions.
Translations
Translations of the word "surprisingly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 surpreendentemente
🇮🇳 आश्चर्यजनक रूप से
🇩🇪 überraschenderweise
🇮🇩 secara mengejutkan
🇺🇦 несподівано
🇵🇱 zaskakująco
🇯🇵 驚くほど
🇫🇷 de manière surprenante
🇪🇸 sorprendentemente
🇹🇷 şaşırtıcı bir şekilde
🇰🇷 놀랍게도
🇸🇦 بشكل مدهش
🇨🇿 překvapivě
🇸🇰 prekvapivo
🇨🇳 令人惊讶地
🇸🇮 presenetljivo
🇮🇸 furðulega
🇰🇿 таңғаларлықтай
🇬🇪 გასაოცრად
🇦🇿 təəccüblü şəkildə
🇲🇽 sorprendentemente