we were dumbfounded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were dumbfounded" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a state of shock or astonishment in response to unexpected news or events. Example: "When we heard the results of the competition, we were dumbfounded by how well we had performed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Well, we were dumbfounded.

The Guardian

In the stands, we were dumbfounded".

The New York Times

So we marched over there to go see them, because we were dumbfounded.

The Washington Post

"When we got the word that it was going to close, we were dumbfounded," she said.

The New York Times

Ms Lane, 61, writer of The Liver Birds and Bread, said: "We were dumbfounded.

The Guardian

We were dumbfounded: with 34 students per class and 100-120 students per teacher, we have too many teachers?

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"We are dumbfounded," Ms. Cronin said.

The New York Times

A spokesperson for the Rolling Stones said: "We are dumbfounded and perplexed at this rather silly decision.

The Guardian - Music

We are dumbfounded by the government's proposal because it doesn't just shift the goal posts, it rips them out of the ground.

The Guardian

"I've been in Chicago for 63 years, and we're dumbfounded at how the date has taken on a life of its own.

BBC

We are dumbfounded by how far our actions travel.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were dumbfounded" to express a shared sense of astonishment or disbelief among a group. Ensure the context clearly explains the cause of this surprise.

Common error

Avoid using "we were dumbfounded" in situations that warrant a milder expression of surprise. It is best reserved for instances of genuine shock or amazement, as it conveys a strong emotional response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were dumbfounded" functions as an expression of shared astonishment or bewilderment. It describes a state of being rendered speechless or unable to react due to surprise, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we were dumbfounded" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express a shared sense of shock or astonishment. According to Ludwig, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives such as "we were astonished" or "we were amazed" exist, "we were dumbfounded" effectively conveys a strong emotional response to unexpected events. Consider the intensity of the surprise to avoid overstatement, and ensure that the context clearly explains the cause of the group's astonishment. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable and correct in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were astonished

This alternative conveys a strong sense of surprise, similar to "dumbfounded", but may sound slightly more formal.

we were astounded

A formal synonym for amazed, indicating great surprise and wonder.

we were amazed

Expresses a high degree of surprise and wonder, often implying a positive or impressive cause.

we were stunned

Suggests a temporary inability to react due to surprise or disbelief.

we were shocked

Implies a sudden and unpleasant surprise, often associated with negative events.

we were flabbergasted

This alternative indicates extreme surprise and bewilderment, often used for humorous effect.

we couldn't believe it

A more conversational way to express disbelief and surprise.

we were taken aback

Indicates a mild surprise that causes a brief pause or hesitation.

we were speechless

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

we were floored

Suggests being overwhelmed with surprise, often in a positive way.

FAQs

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

You can use "we were dumbfounded" to express surprise or astonishment at something unexpected. For example, "We were dumbfounded by the unexpected turn of events".

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

You can use alternatives like "we were astonished", "we were amazed", or "we were shocked" depending on the context.

Is "we were dumbfounded" formal or informal?

"We were dumbfounded" sits in a relatively neutral register, suitable for many contexts. However, it might be perceived as slightly less formal than "we were astounded" or "we were astonished", and more formal than saying "we couldn't believe it".

What's the difference between "we were surprised" and "we were dumbfounded"?

"We were surprised" indicates a general feeling of unexpectedness, while "we were dumbfounded" suggests a deeper level of shock or amazement that leaves one temporarily speechless or bewildered.