express surprise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express surprise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of showing astonishment or disbelief about something. Example: "She couldn't help but express surprise at the unexpected news of their engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The six new emoji depict various expressions, from an open mouth to express surprise to a scowling red face for anger.

The New York Times - Tech

I express surprise.

Independent

When I express surprise, he brushes it aside.

Independent

After the game, Wieters did not express surprise.

The New York Times - Sports

Colleagues sometimes express surprise at his faith, he said.

The New York Times

Often, people express surprise that someone like Susan can read.

The New York Times

They may decry today's revelations, but they have no right to express surprise at them.

The Economist

Some analysts express surprise at the suddenness and steepness of the current rally.

The New York Times

Sometimes, she said, her peers express surprise when she tells them where she lives.

The New York Times

Over and over writers express surprise that their minds really are housed in bodies.

The New York Times - Books

Her charges also often express surprise at the cold showers and humble toilet facilities.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "express surprise", consider the context and choose a verb that accurately reflects the intensity and nature of the surprise. For example, "register mild surprise" versus "exhibit utter astonishment".

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of "express surprise" in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "show astonishment" or "convey disbelief" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "express surprise" is as a verb phrase, where "express" functions as a transitive verb taking "surprise" as its direct object. Ludwig's examples illustrate its usage in various sentences, showcasing its ability to describe a subject's action of showing surprise.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academic & Scientific

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express surprise" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe the act of showing astonishment or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While commonly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. For enhanced writing, it's recommended to diversify your vocabulary by employing synonyms such as "show astonishment" or "convey disbelief", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show astonishment

Indicates a visible display of great surprise or amazement.

manifest astonishment

Highlights the outward appearance of surprise, often in a physical way.

convey disbelief

Focuses on communicating a lack of belief or acceptance.

register amazement

Emphasizes the mental recognition and subsequent display of wonder.

reveal astonishment

Indicates that surprise was previously hidden or not obvious.

betray astonishment

Suggests an involuntary or unintentional revelation of surprise.

give voice to surprise

Specifically refers to verbally expressing feelings of surprise.

display wonder

Emphasizes the positive, awe-filled aspect of surprise.

evidence shock

Implies a strong, often negative, reaction of surprise.

articulate surprise

Focuses on the clear and coherent expression of feelings of surprise.

FAQs

How can I use "express surprise" in a sentence?

You can use "express surprise" to describe someone showing astonishment or disbelief about something. For example, "She couldn't help but express surprise at the unexpected news."

What are some alternatives to "express surprise"?

You can use alternatives like "show astonishment", "convey disbelief", or "register amazement" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "express surprise at" or "express surprise for"?

The correct preposition to use with "express surprise" is "at". For example, "express surprise at the announcement" is correct.

What does it mean to "express surprise"?

To "express surprise" means to show or communicate a feeling of astonishment or amazement, typically in response to something unexpected or unusual.