Synonyms for
Shocking
Definition
Causing intense surprise, disgust, or dismay.
Synonyms & similar words
shock
appall
takeaback
blowoutofthewater
offend
appal
traumatize
traumatise
floor
disgraceful
scandalize
scandalise
shameful
outrage
scandalous
ballover
lurid
appalling
disconcerting
disturbing
frightening
horrifying
outrageous
startling
surprising
terrifying
unbelievable
unthinkable
unimaginable
unprecedented
unthinkable
upsetting
alarming
amazing
astonishing
bewildering
breathtaking
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- shocking news
- shocking revelation
- shocking behavior
- shocking discovery
- shocking statement
- shocking display
- shocking truth
Word family
Usage note
Often used to describe something that causes surprise or dismay. Can imply something negative or morally reprehensible, but also something surprisingly good or impressive.
Compare "shocking" with another word →
Example sentences
- The shocking news was hard to believe.
- The scary movie was too shocking for me to watch.
- I was shocked when I saw the damage from the storm.
- It was shocking to see the car crash on the side of the road.
- The teacher was shocked by the student's behavior.
Quotes
The world is a shocking place, full of surprises.
The most shocking thing about war is that it never changes.
The truth is always shocking.