be flabbergasted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be flabbergasted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express extreme surprise or shock in various contexts, often when something unexpected occurs. Example: "When she revealed her secret talent, I couldn't help but be flabbergasted by her incredible skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

She'll be flabbergasted.

The New York Times

No, I'd still be flabbergasted.

The New York Times

A chemist would be flabbergasted.

MIT Technology Review

I will be flabbergasted if he goes and sits in his garden and puts his feet up.

The Guardian - Sport

People who know me well would be flabbergasted to know that I do actually own a couple of cookery books.

The New York Times - Books

They will be flabbergasted by the times and speeds and difficulties these people have, and the way they overcome them".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

Cranley was flabbergasted.

Harvard University

Many pundits were flabbergasted.

The New Yorker

Mr. Watson was flabbergasted.

The New York Times - Health

"We were flabbergasted.

The Economist

Mullin was flabbergasted.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be flabbergasted" to express a high degree of surprise and disbelief, particularly when something defies expectations. Ensure the context warrants such a strong reaction for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "be flabbergasted" for minor surprises or inconveniences. Reserving it for truly shocking or astonishing events maintains its potency and prevents it from sounding hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

Verb phrase expressing a state of extreme surprise or astonishment. The phrase "be flabbergasted" is used to indicate that someone is utterly amazed or shocked by something unexpected, as shown in Ludwig's examples. It serves to emphasize the intensity of the surprise.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

10%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be flabbergasted" is a verb phrase used to express a high degree of surprise or astonishment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While it is most frequently found in news and media, it is versatile enough for use in informal and professional settings. When using "be flabbergasted", ensure that the context warrants a strong reaction to maintain its impact. Remember to avoid overusing it in mild situations to prevent sounding hyperbolic. Related phrases include "be astonished" and "be amazed", offering slight variations in formality and intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be astonished

Expresses a strong feeling of surprise or wonder, slightly more formal than "be flabbergasted".

be astounded

Similar to "be astonished" but carries a sense of awe.

be amazed

Implies a feeling of great surprise and pleasure, often at something impressive.

be stunned

Suggests a state of shock or bewilderment, often due to unexpected news or events.

be dumbfounded

Indicates being speechless with astonishment.

be surprised

A general term for feeling unexpectedness, less intense than "be flabbergasted".

be floored

Implies being overwhelmed by surprise, often in a positive way.

be shocked

Implies a strong negative reaction to something unexpected, suggesting offense or outrage.

be taken aback

Suggests a momentary surprise that causes one to pause or hesitate.

be bewildered

Expresses confusion and uncertainty, as well as surprise.

FAQs

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

You can use "be flabbergasted" to describe a state of extreme surprise or astonishment. For example, "I would "be flabbergasted" if he didn't come back."

What can I say instead of "be flabbergasted"?

You can use alternatives like "be astonished", "be amazed", or "be stunned" depending on the context.

Is "be flabbergasted" formal or informal?

"Be flabbergasted" is generally considered a neutral to slightly informal expression. It's suitable for most conversations and writings but may be less appropriate in highly formal academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "be surprised" and "be flabbergasted"?

"Be surprised" indicates a general feeling of unexpectedness, while ""be flabbergasted"" suggests a much stronger reaction of shock and disbelief. The latter implies a greater deviation from expectations.