I am flabbergasted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am flabbergasted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express extreme surprise or shock about something unexpected. Example: "When I heard the news of her sudden resignation, I was completely flabbergasted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

I am flabbergasted, flabbergasted on a lot of fronts.

The New York Times - Sports

"I am flabbergasted that she would reach so far," he said, speaking to reporters between campaign stops in Binghamton.

The New York Times

"Bionde" Jewish Krakow I am flabbergasted that the author has written an article about Jewish Krakow without mentioning the Jewish Community Centre.

Independent

I am flabbergasted by the lack of outrage, especially by groups that champion workplace issues, against the President's treatment of women in the workplace (news articles, Sept. 14).

The New York Times

"I am flabbergasted to learn that this kind of gossip can work its way into a respectable publication such as the Book Review".

The Guardian - Books

As a fairly new parent, I am flabbergasted by the extent to which so many of my peers obsess over their child-rearing responsibilities.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"I was flabbergasted.

The New York Times

I'm flabbergasted!

The New York Times

"Now?" I was flabbergasted.

The New York Times - Books

"I was flabbergasted," Amy said.

The New York Times

"I'm flabbergasted," he said.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using this phrase; while generally acceptable, it may not be appropriate in all casual conversations.

Common error

Avoid using "I am flabbergasted" in everyday, informal conversations. Overusing it can make your speech sound unnatural or overly dramatic. Simpler expressions like "I'm surprised" or "I can't believe it" are often more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I am flabbergasted" functions as an expression of strong surprise or astonishment. Ludwig indicates that this expression is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The examples show it used to convey a sense of being overwhelmed by unexpected events or information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I am flabbergasted" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to express strong surprise or astonishment. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is appropriate for written English. While suitable for neutral to slightly formal contexts, simpler alternatives might be preferable in casual conversation. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources. When using this phrase, be mindful of your audience and the level of formality required. If you're looking for alternatives, consider phrases like "I'm astonished" or "I'm amazed".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm astonished

This alternative uses a synonym for "flabbergasted", maintaining a formal tone but differing slightly in intensity.

I find it astounding

This is a more formal way to say something is extremely surprising or impressive.

I'm dumbfounded

This implies being so surprised that one is temporarily unable to speak.

I'm amazed

This option is less formal than "flabbergasted" but expresses a similar feeling of wonder or surprise.

I'm stunned

This suggests a feeling of being overwhelmed or shocked, similar to being flabbergasted.

I'm shocked

This indicates a stronger negative reaction, often to something unpleasant or unexpected.

I'm bewildered

This suggests a state of confusion and surprise, often when something is difficult to understand.

I can't believe it

This is a more colloquial way of expressing disbelief and surprise.

I'm taken aback

This phrase suggests a sudden surprise or shock.

That's unbelievable

This expresses strong disbelief, similar to being flabbergasted.

FAQs

How can I use "I am flabbergasted" in a sentence?

You can use "I am flabbergasted" to express extreme surprise or shock. For example, "I am flabbergasted by the lack of outrage over this decision" or "I was flabbergasted when I heard the news".

What can I say instead of "I am flabbergasted"?

You can use alternatives like "I'm astonished", "I'm amazed", or "I'm stunned" to convey a similar sense of surprise.

Is "I am flabbergasted" too formal for everyday conversation?

While "I am flabbergasted" is generally acceptable, it can sound somewhat formal. In casual conversations, simpler alternatives like "I can't believe it" or "I'm shocked" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "I am surprised" and "I am flabbergasted"?

"I am surprised" indicates a mild sense of wonder, while "I am flabbergasted" expresses a much stronger feeling of astonishment or disbelief. "I am flabbergasted" is used when the surprise is particularly intense or unexpected.