it was so surprising

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was so surprising" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a strong reaction to an unexpected event or situation. Example: "When I found out the results of the experiment, it was so surprising that I had to double-check the data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The town is proud of its pay-as-you-go policy, which is why it was so surprising when earlier this month it entered the bond market to pay for 75 acres of open land, the first time the town has sold municipal bonds since it paid for a school project about 50 years ago.

The New York Times

It was so surprising to me what they did.

The New Yorker

It was so surprising to me," she says.

Independent

"People discovered that women's [soccer] does exist in France and it was so surprising".

The New Yorker

It was so surprising that a group of us onstage started to cry.

The New York Times

"It was so surprising and so extraordinary that I lived to see freedom".

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

I do like the sense that it's so surprising".

The New York Times - Books

"I think it's so surprising I'm not able to take it quite seriously.

The Guardian - Books

That's a pretty obvious one to come straight to mind, but it is so surprising to me.

Independent

Which is why it's so surprising that Terminator Salvation was so roundly condemned in the US upon its release last month.

The Guardian - Film

"I don't think it's so surprising," Professor Epstein added, "and I don't think it's so bad if it's true".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was so surprising", consider the tone you wish to convey. The phrase can be used in both positive and negative contexts, but the surrounding language should clarify the emotional valence.

Common error

Avoid using "it was so surprising" as a mere filler phrase without providing specific details about what was surprising. Always follow up with a clear explanation to maintain the reader's engagement and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was so surprising" serves as an expressive statement, conveying a strong sense of astonishment or unexpectedness. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and frequently used, making it a reliable way to communicate surprise.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was so surprising" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase for expressing astonishment or disbelief. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent use across various contexts. While primarily found in news and media, as well as academic settings, its neutral register makes it suitable for a wide range of communication. For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "it was quite unexpected". Remember to provide specific details about what was surprising to avoid using the phrase as a mere filler.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was astonishing

Replaces "surprising" with a stronger term, "astonishing", indicating greater amazement.

it was quite unexpected

Replaces "surprising" with "unexpected", softening the emotional impact.

it was a shock

Uses "shock" to convey a stronger sense of surprise, often implying a negative connotation.

it came as a surprise

Changes the structure to emphasize the arrival of something unexpected.

it took me by surprise

Similar to 'caught me off guard', highlighting the element of surprise.

it was unforeseen

Highlights the lack of anticipation for the event.

it caught me off guard

Focuses on the unpreparedness caused by the surprising event.

it defied expectations

Emphasizes the contrast between what was expected and what actually happened.

it was remarkable

Shifts the focus to the unusual or noteworthy nature of the event.

it was an eye-opener

Indicates that the surprising event provided new insight or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "it was so surprising" in a sentence?

Use "it was so surprising" to express a strong feeling of astonishment or unexpectedness. For example, "When I found out I got the job, "it was so surprising" that I couldn't speak for a moment."

What are some alternatives to "it was so surprising"?

Alternatives include "it was quite unexpected", "it came as a surprise", or "it was astonishing". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "it was so surprising" formal or informal?

"It was so surprising" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in a variety of contexts, from casual conversations to news reports. However, in more formal writing, you might prefer alternatives like "it was quite unexpected".

What's the difference between "it was surprising" and "it was so surprising"?

Adding "so" to "it was surprising" intensifies the feeling of surprise. While "it was surprising" simply acknowledges an unexpected event, ""it was so surprising"" emphasizes the speaker's strong reaction to it.