startling statements

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "startling statements" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe remarks or declarations that are surprising or shocking in nature. Example: "The report contained several startling statements that challenged our previous understanding of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But, again without precise documentation, he makes some startling statements.

The New York Times - Books

Investigators said that the suspect, Charles Cullen, 43, of Bethlehem, Pa., made his startling statements about serial killings freely over the weekend.

The New York Times

In 1955, the injustice of the black experience was no longer news, and if Baldwin's warning drew attention it was overshadowed by the gentler yet more startling statements that made his work unique.

The New Yorker

ON Sunday, a day before last night's national championship game against Florida, Tom Izzo, the Michigan State head coach, made one of the more startling statements of the tournament.

The New York Times - Sports

Along the way, Mr. McNamara makes some startling statements; the one that has gotten the most attention is his memory of a conversation with General LeMay during World War II: "LeMay said, 'If we'd lost the war, we'd all have been prosecuted as war criminals.' And I think he's right.

The New York Times - Arts

But it's also a day on which the President of the United States, Donald Trump, has made some very startling statements about the ring of fire, and so forth, that he will bring down to bear on North Korea should they make another belligerent statement.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

A startling statement shocks or startles an audience into paying attention.

WikiHow

That is not a startling statement.

The Economist

This was a startling statement, coming from a scholar of constitutional law.

The New York Times

He began his talk — and the paper he eventually published — with a startling statement: "C.

The New Yorker

Back when Team Sky was in utero, Sir Dave Brailsford made a startling statement of intent.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "startling statements", ensure the context clearly indicates why the statements are surprising or shocking to the audience. Provide sufficient background information for the impact to be understood.

Common error

Avoid using "startling statements" to describe mildly surprising information. Reserve this phrase for genuinely shocking or unexpected pronouncements to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "startling statements" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it refers to surprising or shocking declarations. The phrase is used to identify remarks that deviate from the expected or known.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "startling statements" is a noun phrase used to describe pronouncements that are surprising or shocking. As confirmed by Ludwig, its grammatical function is correct and it's frequently found in News & Media sources. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly highlights the unexpected nature of the statements. While versatile, avoid overusing it for minor surprises to maintain its impact. Consider alternatives like "shocking declarations" or "surprising remarks" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shocking declarations

Emphasizes the shocking nature of the statements.

surprising remarks

Focuses on the unexpected nature of the remarks.

unexpected pronouncements

Highlights the unforeseen quality of the announcements.

astonishing claims

Stresses the unbelievable aspect of the claims.

remarkable assertions

Indicates the noteworthiness of the assertions.

sensational revelations

Highlights the sensational aspect of the revelations.

eye-opening disclosures

Focuses on the enlightening nature of the disclosures.

inflammatory remarks

Focuses on the controversial and provocative quality of the remarks.

bold pronouncements

Emphasizes the courageous or audacious nature of the pronouncements.

startling admissions

Focuses on the surprising nature of confessions or acknowledgements.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "startling statements" in my writing?

Use "startling statements" to introduce a significant shift in understanding or to capture the audience's attention immediately. Follow up with evidence or explanations to support the claim and justify its "startling" nature.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "startling statements"?

You can use alternatives like "shocking declarations", "surprising remarks", or "unexpected pronouncements" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "startling statements" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "startling statements" can be used in formal writing, especially when reporting on significant findings or revelations. However, ensure that the tone remains objective and the focus stays on the content of the statements rather than sensationalizing them.

What makes a statement truly "startling"?

A statement is "startling" when it contradicts established beliefs, presents unexpected information, or has significant implications. The impact depends on the audience's prior knowledge and the context in which the statement is made.