open-mouthed

USAGE SUMMARY

"open-mouthed" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone who is surprised or astonished. Example: She stood open-mouthed at the unexpected announcement. Alternative expressions include "gaping" and "astonished."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mr. Malarkey stares, open-mouthed, completely unequal to Mr. Lefebvre's game.

The New York Times - Arts

I was open-mouthed.

Independent

I was left open-mouthed.

The Guardian

Ball boys stood open-mouthed.

The Guardian - Sport

I stood there open-mouthed.

The Guardian

Three mellifluous, open-mouthed syllables.

The New York Times - Travel

Bright, by now, was simply open-mouthed.

The Guardian - Sport

Red-cheeked, open-mouthed, screeching, tearless meltdown".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

And the choreography, I just sit open mouthed.

The New York Times

But it's the title that leaves me open- mouthed.

The Guardian - Arts

Spectators watched open mouthed.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "open-mouthed" to vividly describe a character's reaction to something surprising, shocking, or awe-inspiring. It's particularly effective in narrative writing to convey immediate, visceral reactions.

Common error

While "open-mouthed" is descriptive, relying on it too frequently can make your writing repetitive. Vary your descriptions of surprise or shock by using synonyms like "dumbfounded", "speechless", or "astonished" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "open-mouthed" is as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe someone's expression, typically indicating surprise, astonishment, or shock. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "open-mouthed" serves as an adjective, effectively describing a reaction of surprise, awe or shock. While grammatically sound and common across various sources, as supported by Ludwig, it's important to consider context and audience when using this phrase. Ludwig AI suggests that while "open-mouthed" works well in many situations, especially in news and media, opting for synonyms like "dumbfounded", "speechless", or "astonished" can enhance sophistication in more formal contexts. Varying your vocabulary will maintain reader engagement and prevent repetitiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

agape

Refers to the mouth being wide open, often in surprise or wonder; emphasizes the physical aspect.

dumbfounded

Highlights the inability to speak due to surprise or shock; emphasizes the mental state.

speechless

Directly indicates a temporary loss of words, usually from surprise or shock; focuses on the inability to speak.

astonished

Emphasizes a feeling of great surprise and wonder.

amazed

Focuses on a feeling of wonder and surprise, often at something impressive.

flabbergasted

Implies being utterly astonished or shocked, often to the point of being unable to react.

awe-struck

Conveys a feeling of reverence and amazement, often inspired by something impressive or majestic.

jaw-dropping

Describes something so surprising or impressive that it causes one's jaw to drop; emphasizes the effect.

gaping

Suggests a wide-open mouth, often implying astonishment or bewilderment.

incredulous

Expresses disbelief or skepticism; focuses on the lack of acceptance or belief.

FAQs

How can I use "open-mouthed" in a sentence?

Use "open-mouthed" to describe someone's reaction when they are surprised or astonished. For example: "She stared "open-mouthed" at the unexpected guest".

What's a more impactful alternative to "open-mouthed"?

For a stronger impact, consider "dumbfounded" or "flabbergasted". These words imply a greater level of surprise or shock than simply having an open mouth.

Is it ever incorrect to use "open-mouthed"?

While grammatically correct, "open-mouthed" might be inappropriate in formal or professional contexts where a more sophisticated vocabulary is expected. In such cases, opt for alternatives like "astonished" or "amazed".

What does "open-mouthed" suggest beyond simple surprise?

"Open-mouthed" often implies a sense of awe or disbelief, beyond just surprise. It suggests that the person is so taken aback that they are momentarily rendered speechless or unable to react normally.