total shock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "total shock" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complete or overwhelming feeling of surprise or disbelief in various contexts. Example: "When she heard the news of her promotion, she was in total shock and couldn't find the words to respond."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Total shock.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was total shock.

The New York Times - Sports

We were in total shock".

The New York Times

We are in total shock.

Independent

They were in total shock".

The New York Times

It wasn't a total shock.

The New York Times - Arts

I remember just total shock.

The New Yorker

It was just total shock.

The Guardian - Sport

"I am in total shock.

The Guardian

"I was in total shock," she said.

The New York Times

Still, it was not a total shock.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "total shock" to effectively convey a strong feeling of surprise, disbelief, or bewilderment in response to an unexpected event or revelation.

Common error

While "total shock" is widely acceptable, be mindful of overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more nuanced synonyms like "profound surprise" or "utter disbelief" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "total shock" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It often acts as a subject complement or object, describing a state of being or a reaction. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples where the phrase is used to express an intense emotional response.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

16%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "total shock" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that effectively conveys a sense of extreme surprise or disbelief. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's prevalent in News & Media, but also acceptable in Academia, although careful consideration should be given to formality. When choosing between "total shock" and similar phrases, consider the specific nuance you wish to emphasize. Synonyms like "utter disbelief" or "complete astonishment" can provide more precise emotional coloring, although maintaining the core meaning. In formal writing, be careful not to overuse it. While the phrase itself is correct, a more sophisticated choice can improve tone and readability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utter disbelief

Emphasizes the lack of belief rather than the surprise.

complete astonishment

Highlights the extreme level of amazement.

absolute surprise

Focuses on the unexpected nature of the event.

sheer amazement

Highlights the purity and intensity of the amazement.

profound surprise

Suggests a deep and significant level of surprise.

utter bewilderment

Emphasizes the confusion and disorientation.

jaw-dropping surprise

A more informal phrase highlighting the dramatic nature of the surprise.

unmitigated surprise

Emphasizes that the surprise is not lessened or softened in any way.

startled disbelief

Highlights both the surprise and the difficulty in accepting the news.

dumbfounded astonishment

Combines speechlessness with intense amazement.

FAQs

How can I use "total shock" in a sentence?

You can use "total shock" to describe a state of extreme surprise or disbelief. For example, "I was in "total shock" when I heard the news".

What can I say instead of "total shock"?

You can use alternatives like "utter disbelief", "complete astonishment", or "absolute surprise depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "total shock" appropriate for formal writing?

While "total shock" is widely understood, it can sound less formal. Consider using alternatives like "profound surprise" or "utter bewilderment" in formal contexts.

What's the difference between "total shock" and "complete surprise"?

"Total shock" often implies a stronger sense of disbelief or bewilderment than "complete surprise". "Complete surprise" simply means unexpected, while ""total shock"" suggests a more profound emotional or psychological impact.