in total shock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in total shock" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to describe a state of extreme surprise or disbelief. Example: When I saw the final score of the game, I was in total shock. I never would have believed that our team could win by such a large margin.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Tynecastle FC said Jamie would have had a bright future in the game and everyone at the club was "in total shock" at his death.

BBC

We were in total shock".

The New York Times

We are in total shock.

Independent

"I was in total shock," she said.

The New York Times

They were in total shock".

The New York Times

Grimstone's family said they were in "total shock".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

I was terrified and in a total shock.

Independent

After a couple of hysterical phone calls home, I wasn't able to speak for the rest of the day and in my total shock washed every item of clothing I own, even the clean stuff.

The Guardian - Film

I was in total, total shock.

Huffington Post

I'm in absolute and total shock".

The New York Times

"I'm in absolute and total shock," he told the Ma'ariv newspaper.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in total shock" to describe a sudden and overwhelming feeling of surprise, disbelief, or distress. This phrase is suitable for conveying a strong emotional reaction to unexpected events.

Common error

Avoid using "in total shock" to describe minor surprises or slight disappointments. This phrase is best reserved for situations that evoke a significant emotional or psychological impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in total shock" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, describing the state or condition of being extremely surprised or disbelieving. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct way to express a strong emotional reaction. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in describing reactions to sudden, unexpected news or events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in total shock" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a state of extreme surprise, disbelief, or distress. Ludwig AI affirms its validity for use in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media sources, as indicated by Ludwig's analysis, it serves to convey a strong emotional response to unexpected or overwhelming events. When employing this phrase, it's best reserved for situations genuinely evoking significant emotional impact, avoiding its use for minor surprises to maintain its intended effect. Consider alternatives like "completely stunned" or "utterly astonished" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in complete disbelief

This alternative focuses on the inability to accept something as true.

completely stunned

This phrase suggests a state of being overwhelmed and unable to react due to surprise or disbelief.

utterly astonished

This phrase emphasizes a high degree of surprise and amazement.

speechless with surprise

This emphasizes the inability to speak due to overwhelming surprise.

absolutely dumbfounded

This phrase conveys a sense of being speechless and bewildered.

taken aback completely

This suggests a sudden surprise or shock that causes someone to recoil.

entirely flabbergasted

This suggests a state of bewilderment and confusion.

in profound amazement

This phrase highlights a deep sense of wonder and surprise.

deeply shaken

This phrase indicates an emotional disturbance or upset caused by a shocking event.

totally overwhelmed

This alternative expresses a feeling of being completely submerged by emotions.

FAQs

How can I use "in total shock" in a sentence?

You can use "in total shock" to describe someone's reaction to an unexpected or unbelievable event. For example, "I was "in total shock" when I heard the news."

What are some alternatives to saying "in total shock"?

Alternatives include "completely stunned", "utterly astonished", or "in complete disbelief", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "in total shock"?

Yes, the phrase "in total shock" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to express a state of extreme surprise or disbelief.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "in total shock"?

Use "in total shock" when describing a strong emotional response to something unexpected and overwhelming. It's suitable for events that cause significant surprise, disbelief, or distress.