"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?

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.