aghast

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "aghast" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use "aghast" to describe a feeling of shock and horror, usually in response to something that has happened unexpectedly. Example sentence: We were all aghast when we heard the news of Sarah's sudden passing.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Paisley was aghast.

The Guardian - Sport

'I basically just stayed in for nine months.' As the mothers ask aghast questions and wonder what they can do to help, I gather my things and leave.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'm still aghast as to how these failures so far apart can cause such widespread misery.

The Guardian

If it reads pedantically at times (Dan was aghast at the title, which he thought sounded like a bad translation from the German), there are rich pickings in the short chapters, with titles such as "The uncertainty principle", "Chess and psychology" and "Auto aggression".

The Guardian - Sport

He was going gaga for flicks that left some in their homeland aghast and disgusted.

The Guardian - Film

When I arrived, I was slightly aghast to be told that there was no electricity, no internet and barely any mobile reception, but this soon gave way to gratitude for the peaceful silence as I lay on a sun lounger outside my lodge, sipping fresh mint tea, unable to take my eyes off the surrounding landscape, all rolling, pastel pink mountains and olive trees.

The Guardian - Travel

There has been no change to speak of in the economy, and, after five years in post, Mr Osborne can hardly plead that he was aghast when he opened the books.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hearing it he looks aghast, and angles himself away from me.

The Guardian - Music

But, across the Irish sea, bankers in the City were today watching nervously, aghast even, that the Irish government could take such an extraordinary step.

The Guardian - Opinion

We were all aghast that Ted was thinking of sacking the only woman in the cabinet.

The Guardian

Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat president, said he was aghast at the tweets.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "aghast" to express a strong feeling of shock, fear, or dismay when something unexpected and unpleasant happens. It is most effective when the situation warrants a significant emotional response.

Common error

Avoid using "aghast" to describe situations that evoke mild disappointment or annoyance. The word implies a much stronger emotional reaction than simple displeasure.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "aghast" is as a predicate adjective. It typically follows a linking verb (e.g., "was", "seemed", "appeared") and describes the subject's emotional state. As Ludwig highlights, it indicates a feeling of terror or horror.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "aghast" is an adjective used to describe a state of being filled with shock, horror, or dismay. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While appropriate for formal writing, it is essential to reserve its use for situations that genuinely warrant a strong emotional reaction. Alternatives like "horrified" or "appalled" may be suitable depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid using "aghast" when describing mild disappointment, as it implies a significantly more intense emotional response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

horrified

Single word alternative, conveying intense shock and fear.

appalled

Single word, similar to "aghast" but often implies moral outrage.

shocked and horrified

More explicit combination of emotions.

utterly shocked

Emphasizes the complete surprise and disbelief.

dismayed

Single word, expressing disappointment and discouragement.

horrified and disgusted

More intense and specific emotional reaction.

taken aback

Suggests surprise and mild shock.

filled with consternation

More formal and emphasizes anxiety or dismay.

stunned

Implies a temporary inability to react due to surprise.

flabbergasted

More informal way to say surprised and confused.

FAQs

How can I use "aghast" in a sentence?

Use "aghast" to describe someone who is overcome with shock and dismay. For example, "She was aghast at the damage caused by the storm."

What's the difference between "aghast" and "appalled"?

"Aghast" and "appalled" both express strong disapproval. "Aghast" emphasizes shock and fear, while "appalled" often implies moral outrage.

What are some alternatives to using "aghast"?

You can use words like "horrified", "dismayed", or "stunned" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "aghast" in formal writing?

Yes, "aghast" is appropriate for formal writing when describing a significant level of shock or dismay. However, consider the tone and context to ensure it fits appropriately.