dumbfounded at

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dumbfounded at" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing shock or astonishment at a particular situation or event. Example: "She was dumbfounded at the unexpected news of her promotion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

The few winners seemed dumbfounded at their good fortune.

The New York Times - Travel

One resident, Marcel Thambwe, 30, was dumbfounded at the destruction.

The New York Times

"I was completely dumbfounded at what was taking place.

The New York Times

Mr. Steinbrenner appeared dumbfounded at times, for instance, when the Yankees could not sign the free-agent players he wanted.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, he says that he was "dumbfounded at the fans who follow Patti," at the level of their obsession.

The New Yorker

I am dumbfounded at Robert Peston's experience as related by Michael Bywater (Our culture of grieving is changing, 1 August).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

And Capote (Michael J. Burg) may have really been surprised that Hepburn understood the symbolism of tossing the nameless cat out of the taxi in "Breakfast at Tiffany's," but he probably didn't stare at her dumbfounded as a result.

The New York Times - Arts

They looked at me, dumbfounded, then at each other, puzzled.

Huffington Post

The session had a soft rhythm of exploration and dumbfounded amazement at what HP and RIM and Nokia were thinking when they jumped in with tablets for the remaining 3%.

TechCrunch

Each of us stood there, dumbfounded, looking at news updates on our phones.

Vice

You can still go ahead and ask them, " What do you think about, you know, if you and I could go out?" If they stare at you dumbfounded, then just laugh at it, and say that it was a joke; but if he looks up at you shyly, then its also a possibility that he likes you too, but has just been shy about it as well.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dumbfounded at" to express a sense of shock or amazement, particularly when someone is rendered speechless or unable to react immediately due to surprise.

Common error

Avoid using "dumbfounded at" in situations that warrant a more nuanced or specific emotional response. For instance, use a more descriptive adjective if the situation calls for anger, sadness, or mild surprise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dumbfounded at" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition. It typically describes a state of being deeply surprised or astonished by something. As Ludwig AI shows, it modifies a subject to indicate their reaction to a surprising event or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dumbfounded at" is a commonly used phrase to convey a sense of profound surprise or shock. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "astonished by" or "amazed by" exist, "dumbfounded at" effectively communicates a strong emotional response, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary. The best practice is to use it when you want to emphasize that someone was not just surprised, but utterly bewildered by something. Be careful not to overuse the term when a milder expression of surprise would be more fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flabbergasted by

Emphasizes being utterly surprised and bewildered.

astounded by

Indicates a high degree of astonishment.

astonished by

Changes the preposition and implies a strong sense of surprise.

stunned by

Indicates a state of shock, similar to being dumbfounded.

amazed by

Replaces "dumbfounded" with a less intense term for surprise.

bewildered by

Focuses on confusion and lack of understanding due to surprise.

speechless with amazement at

Highlights the inability to speak due to overwhelming surprise.

taken aback by

Suggests a sudden surprise that causes a momentary pause or reaction.

surprised by

Represents a general state of being caught off guard.

incredulous at

Highlights disbelief as the primary reaction.

FAQs

How can I use "dumbfounded at" in a sentence?

You can use "dumbfounded at" to describe someone's reaction of shock or amazement, such as "She was "dumbfounded at" the unexpected turn of events".

What can I say instead of "dumbfounded at"?

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

Is it correct to say "dumbfounded by" instead of "dumbfounded at"?

While "dumbfounded at" is a perfectly acceptable construction, "dumbfounded by" is also common and often interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "dumbfounded at" and "surprised at"?

"Dumbfounded at" implies a stronger sense of shock or bewilderment compared to "surprised at". "Surprised" indicates a mild level of being taken aback, whereas "dumbfounded" suggests a more profound state of astonishment.