shocking outcome

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shocking outcome" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a result or conclusion that is surprising or unexpected, often in a negative context. Example: "The investigation revealed a shocking outcome that left the community in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

With one shocking outcome after another, the world's top three players were eliminated today in the opening round.

The New York Times - Sports

Daisy's alleged assailants are initially let off, but once the rest of the country catches wind of the shocking outcome, national media descend upon the town.

The Guardian - Film

Yet Mr. Daggett, who holds out hope for a shocking outcome despite expressing frustration with his inability to get his message out, says this much is certain: "I am the deciding factor in this election".

The New York Times

"Hillary Clinton, guilty or not guilty?" he asked repeatedly, prompting a bellow of "guilty!" from the crowd each time, often followed by chants of "lock her up!" Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama, who began the lengthy nominating process at 6pm in Cleveland by formally proposing Trump, explained the once shocking outcome as a product of the troubled mood among American voters.

The Guardian

Sri Lankans decisively elected Maithripala Sirisena as their president on Thursday, delivering a shocking outcome that few analysts would have predicted weeks ago.

Vice

Analysis of the impact of nuclear weapon use on American cities has revealed the shocking outcome in mortality and morbidity in densely occupied urban areas.

Conflict and Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This movement claims to rely on data, but seems to ignore some shocking outcomes.

The New Yorker

But Wednesday's announcement of a new deal for curbing emissions between China and the US, the world's two largest polluters, is showing how small-group diplomacy can lead to tangible, even shocking outcomes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Sometimes there are shocking outcomes and sometimes they go the way that they look on paper, but they've got to run them for a reason.

Los Angeles Times

This often produces long-shot victories and otherwise-shocking outcomes: Beck beating Kanye West for Album of the Year, in 2015; Esperanza Spalding winning over Justin Bieber and Drake for Best New Artist, in 2011; Arcade Fire winning Album of the Year, also in 2011; and Macklemore beating Lamar for Best New Artist and Best Rap Performance, in 2014.

The New Yorker

"This is a shocking event".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shocking outcome", ensure the context clearly establishes what is considered shocking. Providing specific details about the unexpected or disturbing nature of the outcome will enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "shocking outcome" excessively in situations where the outcome, while perhaps undesirable, isn't truly shocking. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic. Consider if a more neutral term like "unexpected result" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shocking outcome" functions as a noun phrase, where "shocking" is an adjective modifying the noun "outcome". As Ludwig AI states, it's used to describe a result that is surprising or unexpected, often with negative connotations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shocking outcome" is a phrase used to describe a deeply surprising and often negative result. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Although not extremely frequent, the phrase appears commonly in news and media contexts. It's essential to use it judiciously, reserving it for situations where the outcome genuinely warrants a strong emotional response. Alternatives like "surprising result" or "unexpected consequence" may be more appropriate in less dramatic scenarios. The phrase, while versatile, should be wielded with consideration to avoid sensationalism and maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

surprising result

Replaces "outcome" with "result", which is a direct synonym. Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the result.

unexpected consequence

Focuses on the element of surprise regarding the result, framing it as a consequence.

astonishing development

Replaces both words with synonyms, highlighting the unexpected nature of the event.

unforeseen conclusion

Emphasizes the lack of anticipation for the final result or judgment.

startling revelation

Suggests the outcome was previously hidden or unknown and is now being brought to light in a surprising way.

remarkable turn of events

Shifts the focus to the process leading to the outcome rather than the outcome itself, highlighting the unexpected nature of the sequence.

stunning development

Highlights the level of astonishment the development can cause.

unbelievable result

Emphasizes the difficulty to believe the result, suggesting incredulity.

incredible consequence

It stresses that a result or consequence is so amazing that it seems unreal.

jaw-dropping consequence

It refers to consequences or outcome that is extremely surprising or impressive.

FAQs

How can I use "shocking outcome" in a sentence?

You can use "shocking outcome" to describe unexpected and disturbing results, like: "The investigation revealed a "shocking outcome" that left the community in disbelief."

What are some alternatives to "shocking outcome"?

Some alternatives to "shocking outcome" include "surprising result", "unexpected consequence", or "astonishing development". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "shocking outcome" too strong a phrase for mild surprises?

Yes, "shocking outcome" implies a significant and disturbing surprise. For less dramatic situations, consider using phrases like "unexpected result" or "surprising development".

What makes an outcome "shocking"?

An outcome is "shocking" when it is deeply surprising, unexpected, and often disturbing or negative in its implications. It goes beyond a simple surprise and evokes a sense of disbelief or outrage.