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"Shocking" vs. "astounding": a surprising comparison

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 25/11/2024, 23:42
English.me team member
Shocking and astounding. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "shocking" and "astounding" are adjectives used to describe something that evokes a strong emotional reaction, often related to surprise or amazement.

What is different?

"Shocking" typically implies something disturbing, upsetting, or morally outraging, whereas "astounding" suggests something remarkably surprising or impressive in a positive or neutral manner.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for shocking) and astounding

Examples of usage

Shocking
  • The accident scene was truly shocking to everyone who saw it.
  • It was shocking to hear about the sudden resignation of the CEO.
  • The documentary presented some shocking truths about the industry.
Astounding
  • The magician's final trick was absolutely astounding.
  • She made an astounding recovery after the surgery.
  • The scientist's discovery was both unexpected and astounding.

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