we were astounded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were astounded" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a strong sense of surprise or amazement about something that has happened. Example: "When we saw the results of the experiment, we were astounded by the unexpected findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"We were astounded".

The New York Times

"We were astounded," she said.

The New York Times

"We were astounded to locate 110".

The New York Times - Arts

We were astounded, but we soon relaxed.

The New Yorker

"Yes, we were astounded, as well," Mr. McCulloch said.

The New York Times

I remember Eddie playing guitar and we were astounded.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

"I think we're astounded that you took that view," replies Margaret Hodge.

The Guardian

"Particularly, we are astounded that the situation could have gotten this far without any intervention from you to prevent it.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are astounded that a spiritual dignitary would have such words, that are so far removed from truth and dignity," said Yigal Palmor, a spokesman for the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

The New York Times

"We are astounded at the length of time it has taken for News International to cooperate with the police," it said, as it described in withering terms a web of connections between executives at News International and senior police officers.

The New York Times

Mr Agius, who was also before the committee, agreed he had backed the payment on value-for-money grounds, but Ms Hodge told him: "I think we're astounded that you took that view".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were astounded" to express a strong feeling of surprise or amazement, particularly when something exceeds expectations or seems unbelievable. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though "amazed" might be preferred in very casual settings.

Common error

Avoid using "we were astounded" in extremely casual conversations where simpler alternatives like "we were surprised" or "we were amazed" might sound more natural. Consider your audience and the level of formality appropriate for the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were astounded" functions as a statement expressing a strong emotional reaction of surprise or amazement. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and frequently used. The examples show it used to describe reactions to unexpected results, impressive performances, or surprising discoveries.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were astounded" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a significant level of surprise or amazement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a usable phrase in written English and is particularly common in news and media sources. While generally neutral in tone, it leans slightly toward professional contexts, making it suitable for formal writing and reporting. Consider more casual alternatives like "we were surprised" in informal settings. The phrase serves to highlight the unexpected or remarkable nature of the subject being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were amazed

Replaces "astounded" with a more common synonym, conveying a slightly weaker sense of surprise.

we were astonished

Substitutes "astounded" with a synonym that suggests a similar level of surprise and wonder.

we were flabbergasted

Replaces "astounded" with another word suggesting similar degree of surprise.

we were taken aback

Indicates a sudden surprise, suggesting a momentary shock or hesitation.

we couldn't believe it

Expresses disbelief and surprise in a more informal and conversational way.

we found it incredible

Highlights the unbelievable nature of the event, focusing on its extraordinary quality.

we were shocked

Conveys a stronger sense of surprise, often associated with negative or unexpected events.

we were dumbfounded

Emphasizes the inability to speak or react due to extreme surprise.

it blew us away

Uses an informal idiom to express being greatly impressed and surprised.

we stood in awe

Focuses on the feeling of reverence and respect inspired by something surprising and impressive.

FAQs

How can I use "we were astounded" in a sentence?

Use "we were astounded" to describe a feeling of great surprise or amazement, such as, "When we saw the final results, "we were astounded" by the improvement."

What can I say instead of "we were astounded"?

You can use alternatives like "we were amazed", "we were astonished", or "we were taken aback" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "we were astounded" formal or informal?

"We were astounded" sits in a middle ground, leaning towards formal. It can be used in news reporting or professional settings, but in more casual settings alternatives like "we were surprised" may sound more natural.

Is it correct to say "we are astounded" instead of "we were astounded"?

Yes, "we are astounded" is grammatically correct. The choice depends on the timing: "we were astounded" describes a past reaction, while "we are astounded" describes a current reaction. For example, "we are astounded by the support we've received".