be too surprised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be too surprised" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a reaction to an unexpected event or situation, indicating that the level of surprise is excessive. Example: "I wouldn't want to be too surprised if they announced a sudden change in the schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Sport

Books

Tech

Politics

Culture

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Probably he would not be too surprised.

The Economist

We shouldn't be too surprised.

The Guardian - Film

We shouldn't be too surprised when we get run over.

The New Yorker

What?! Well, maybe we shouldn't be too surprised.

The Guardian - Sport

Perhaps we shouldn't be too surprised by Holland's approach.

The Guardian - Sport

Do not be too surprised if neither the coalition nor Ms Tymoshenko's pledge endures.

The Economist

The current owners shouldn't be too surprised that the Movie Gallery's downward trajectory continued.

The New York Times

Indeed, I would not be too surprised if they had buyers in mind.

Independent

On the guilt theme, I guess I shouldn't be too surprised.

The New York Times

I won't be too surprised if New Yorkers are saying the same thing in 2011.

The New York Times

So I shouldn't be too surprised when they are picked up".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add further depth to your writing, consider the context in which you are using the phrase "be too surprised". Using the word appropriately enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "be too surprised" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your phrasing to maintain reader engagement and prevent your writing from sounding monotonous. Use "be greatly astonished" or "be extremely shocked" for similar meanings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be too surprised" functions as a predicate adjective, expressing a state of mind or emotional response to an event or situation. The Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Film

8%

Tech

8%

Less common in

Sport

7%

Opinion

3%

Books

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be too surprised" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to denote a lack of astonishment, often stemming from predictability or resignation. Analysis of Ludwig's examples shows that this phrase appears frequently in News & Media, with neutral tone. When writing, try to avoid repetitive usage of "be too surprised" by opting for alternatives such as "be greatly astonished". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be unreasonably surprised

Highlights that the surprise is not justified or reasonable.

be unduly astonished

Implies that the surprise is unwarranted or excessive, suggesting a more rational response is expected.

be excessively amazed

Highlights that amazement is unwarranted or excessive.

be unduly shocked

Implies that the shock is unwarranted or excessive, suggesting a more rational response is expected.

be incredibly shocked

Highlights a stronger and intense shock response, emphasizing the intensity of the reaction.

be extremely shocked

Highlights the element of shock, implying a strong negative or unexpected reaction.

be excessively startled

Highlights a strong and possibly exaggerated startle response, emphasizing the intensity of the reaction.

be greatly astonished

Emphasizes a heightened level of surprise or amazement, focusing on the intensity of the emotion.

be particularly amazed

Focuses on the feeling of amazement, suggesting a remarkable or impressive occurrence.

be taken aback

Indicates a sudden surprise or shock, often implying a temporary state of confusion or bewilderment.

FAQs

How can I use "be too surprised" in a sentence?

You can use "be too surprised" to express a lack of astonishment about an outcome. For example, "Given his track record, I wouldn't "be too surprised" if he fails again."

What does it mean to "be too surprised"?

To "be too surprised" means that one's level of surprise is unwarranted or exaggerated, often implying the event was somewhat expected or predictable.

What are some alternative ways to say "be too surprised"?

You can use alternatives such as "be unduly astonished", "be unreasonably surprised", or "be excessively amazed" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "be too surprised"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts.