utterly startled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly startled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong reaction of surprise or shock in response to an unexpected event or situation. Example: "When the loud noise erupted from the back of the room, I was utterly startled and jumped in my seat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

When he pretended to play the flute after scoring a goal for Rangers against Celtic, he clearly had no idea of the anti-Catholic symbolism of his gesture – and was utterly startled when the IRA threatened to kill him.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It turns out this notion is utterly wrong, because when Martin walks into a room, I am rather startled to find that a stellar quality enters with him.

The Guardian - Music

Hepburn startled.

The New Yorker

The noise startled us.

The New Yorker

"Oh," she said, startled.

The New Yorker

Then something startled me.

The New York Times

Horses are easily startled.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Investors have been startled.

The Economist

Gavin looked startled.

The New Yorker

She's startled.

The New Yorker

They startled and charmed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterly startled" to emphasize a strong and complete sense of surprise, particularly when the situation involves an element of shock or disbelief. Be mindful of the slightly formal tone.

Common error

While "utterly startled" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "really surprised" or "totally shocked" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

"Utterly startled" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of extreme surprise. It intensifies the feeling of being startled. Ludwig AI confirms this is a correct construction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utterly startled" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a state of intense surprise or shock. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While its frequency is relatively rare, it's most commonly found in news and media contexts. When writing, consider that while grammatically sound it may be too formal for casual conversations, so choose it when you want to convey emphasis and a degree of formality. Alternatives include "completely surprised" or "totally shocked". Consider the slight formality of the expression for best use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely surprised

Emphasizes the completeness of the surprise, similar to "utterly startled".

totally shocked

Highlights the element of shock in addition to surprise.

absolutely astonished

Conveys a sense of great wonder and amazement alongside surprise.

entirely taken aback

Focuses on the unexpectedness and disorienting nature of the surprise.

genuinely surprised

Highlights the authenticity and sincerity of the surprise.

taken completely by surprise

Rephrases the concept to emphasize the element of being caught off guard.

incredibly amazed

Focuses on the aspect of amazement and wonder.

extremely surprised

Uses a more common adverb to modify "surprised".

completely caught off guard

Highlights the lack of preparation for the surprising event.

thoroughly surprised

Similar to 'completely surprised' but with a slightly different nuance.

FAQs

How can I use "utterly startled" in a sentence?

You can use "utterly startled" to describe a strong feeling of surprise or shock, as in "I was "utterly startled" by the sudden noise".

What are some alternatives to "utterly startled"?

Alternatives include "completely surprised", "totally shocked", or "absolutely astonished", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "utterly startled" a formal expression?

Yes, "utterly startled" leans towards the formal side. In more casual contexts, phrases like "really surprised" or "totally caught off guard" might be more suitable.

When is it appropriate to use "utterly startled" over other similar phrases?

Use "utterly startled" when you want to emphasize the completeness and intensity of the surprise, especially when there's an element of shock or disbelief involved. It's more emphatic than simply saying "surprised".