it was very shocking

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'it was very shocking' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something unexpected or upsetting has happened. For example, "I heard the news that my best friend had passed away; it was very shocking".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It was very shocking.

Independent

"It was very shocking, very sudden.

The Guardian

It was very shocking and humbling.

The Guardian

It was very shocking to me".

The Guardian

Even so, it was very shocking, very disturbing.

The New York Times

It was very shocking, especially as I had two passengers with me who were luckily unhurt.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"It's very shocking.

The New York Times

Some of it is very shocking.

The Guardian - Books

"It's very shocking; these are such tragic circumstances.

The Guardian

"It's very shocking when it's so close to you.

Independent

"It's very shocking, especially when it's so close to your house," Don Wolff said.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was very shocking", ensure the context clearly indicates what event or situation caused the shock to provide clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it was very shocking" as a generic reaction. Always specify what was shocking and, if possible, why it was so impactful.

Linguistic Context

Expressing Reaction: The phrase "it was very shocking" primarily functions as an expression of surprise, dismay, or disbelief in response to an unexpected or disturbing event. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was very shocking" is a common and grammatically correct way to express surprise or dismay, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's frequently found in news and media contexts, reflecting reactions to unexpected events. While versatile, ensure context provides specifics of what was shocking. For alternatives, consider "it was incredibly surprising" or "it was deeply unsettling" for nuanced expressions. Remember, clarity and context are essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was incredibly surprising

Replaces "shocking" with "surprising" and intensifies with "incredibly", focusing on the unexpected nature of the event.

it was deeply unsettling

Shifts the focus from shock to the disturbing and unsettling nature of the event.

it was utterly astounding

Emphasizes the amazement and disbelief caused by the event, using a more formal tone.

it was a complete surprise

Simplifies the phrase to highlight the unexpectedness of the situation.

it came as a rude awakening

Implies that the event was an unpleasant revelation or realization.

it was quite a jolt

Uses a more informal and figurative expression to describe the sudden shock.

it was a bolt from the blue

Emphasizes the suddenness and unexpectedness of the event, using a vivid metaphor.

it really took me by surprise

Personalizes the experience of being shocked, focusing on the individual's reaction.

it left me speechless

Highlights the overwhelming impact of the event, suggesting it was beyond words.

it was a major eye-opener

Indicates that the event revealed something significant or previously unknown.

FAQs

What does "it was very shocking" mean?

The phrase "it was very shocking" expresses a strong feeling of surprise and dismay, often in response to unexpected or disturbing news or events.

How can I use "it was very shocking" in a sentence?

You can use "it was very shocking" to describe your reaction to something unexpected. For example: "Hearing about the accident, "it was very shocking"."

What can I say instead of "it was very shocking"?

You can use alternatives like "it was incredibly surprising", "it was deeply unsettling", or "it came as a rude awakening" depending on the context.

Is "it was very shocking" formal or informal?

The phrase "it was very shocking" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal situations might benefit from a more nuanced description.