received a jolt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "received a jolt" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a sudden shock or surprise, often in an emotional or physical context. For example, "She received a jolt of excitement when she heard the news." Alternative expressions include "got a shock" and "experienced a surge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Alberto's hypersensitive nature received a jolt in 1921, when an acquaintance with whom he was travelling fell ill and died.

The New Yorker

The Affordable Care Act, President Obama's perpetually beleaguered health-care initiative, received a jolt of good news last week.

The New Yorker

In September, Morocco received a jolt when South Africa added its moral weight by recognising Sahrawi statehood.

The Economist

By Jeffrey Toobin The Affordable Care Act, President Obama's perpetually beleaguered health-care initiative, received a jolt of good news last week.

The New Yorker

Roddick, who will next face Jürgen Melzer of Austria, received a jolt when he had to retire at Queen's Club after spraining his ankle.

The New York Times - Sports

It led at halftime, 10-7, but received a jolt to open the second half with a 74-yard kickoff return by Perrish Cox to the Georgia 24.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

This morning, before he left South Africa, Mr. Clinton -- or at least some reporters traveling with him -- received a jolting reminder at a church service in Soweto of the charges back in Washington.

The New York Times

Some years back I received a jolting reminder of this connection from a dream so troubling I doubt I will ever forget it.

Huffington Post

Theraclone, a small company in Seattle, is receiving a jolt of new research financing.

The New York Times - Health

Late in the game, McCarty was clobbered by Peter Forsberg, receiving a jolt that triggered an angry scrum.

The New York Times - Sports

Patients, anesthetized, receive a jolt of electricity from electrodes for several seconds, inducing a brain seizure and convulsions of up to a minute.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "received a jolt" to describe a sudden and noticeable impact, whether physical, emotional, or metaphorical. It effectively conveys a sense of abrupt change or surprise.

Common error

While "received a jolt" is a vivid expression, avoid using it too frequently in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "experienced a shock" or "was startled" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "received a jolt" typically functions as a verb phrase, where "received" is the main verb and "a jolt" acts as its direct object. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in describing a sudden impact or stimulus.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "received a jolt" is a versatile expression used to describe a sudden impact, shock, or revitalization. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, especially in news media and encyclopedias. While it is generally considered neutral in register, it can also be used in more informal settings. To enhance your writing, remember that synonyms like "experienced a shock" or "was startled" can be used to avoid redundancy. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experienced a shock

Replaces "jolt" with a synonym that suggests a sudden, unexpected impact, often emotional or psychological.

underwent a surprise

Focuses on the unexpected nature of the event, replacing the physical connotation of "jolt" with a more general term.

was startled

Emphasizes the feeling of sudden surprise or alarm, shifting the focus from the cause to the effect on the individual.

was shaken up

Suggests a more intense reaction to a sudden event, implying emotional or psychological disturbance.

was awakened

Implies a sudden realization or awareness, often after a period of complacency or ignorance.

was invigorated

Highlights the revitalizing aspect of a sudden event, suggesting a boost of energy or enthusiasm.

was stimulated

Similar to "invigorated" but emphasizes the activation of senses or intellect.

was electrified

Uses a metaphor to convey a sense of excitement and energy, replacing the literal meaning of "jolt".

was given a rude awakening

Highlights the unpleasant or shocking nature of the sudden realization.

was given a wake-up call

Similar to "rude awakening" but can also imply a necessary correction or adjustment.

FAQs

How can I use "received a jolt" in a sentence?

You can use "received a jolt" to describe a sudden impact or surprise, for example: "The news "received a jolt" of attention after the scandal broke."

What are some alternatives to "received a jolt"?

Depending on the context, you could use "experienced a shock", "was startled", or "was invigorated" as alternatives to "received a jolt".

Is it correct to say "got a jolt" instead of "received a jolt"?

Both "received a jolt" and "got a jolt" are acceptable, but "received a jolt" is generally considered more formal. "Got" is more conversational.

What's the difference between "received a jolt" and "underwent a transformation"?

"Received a jolt" implies a sudden, often unexpected change, while "underwent a transformation" suggests a more gradual and profound change. The first is sudden while the second is gradual.