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Surprising parallels: "startling" vs. "astonishing"
Lloyd Cooper 02/11/2024, 19:00English.me team member
What is similar?
Both "startling" and "astonishing" are adjectives used to describe something surprising or remarkable that catches attention.
What is different?
While "startling" often implies a sudden surprise that may cause a brief shock or alarm, "astonishing" generally conveys a sense of wonder or amazement without necessarily involving an element of shock.
Which one is more common?
Examples of usage
Startling- The sudden noise was startling.
- Her appearance was so different that it was startling.
- The news of the merger was startling to the employees.
- The magician's trick was astonishing.
- It's astonishing how fast technology is advancing.
- Her recovery from the illness was astonishing.
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