we were startled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were startled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reaction of surprise or shock in response to an unexpected event or situation. Example: "As the loud crash echoed through the room, we were startled and turned to see what had happened."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Sometimes we were startled too.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We were startled by it because it was loud and unexpected.

The New York Times

"We were startled and shaken but were not surprised by what happened".

The New York Times

One night after appetizers, mains and a split dessert, we were startled to receive a bill for only $58.

The New York Times

Coming from Long Island, we were startled and then quite pleased to be guests in such a quiet country.

The New York Times

As we stared at him, we were startled by a sudden movement -- a snake crawling out of his open skull".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

We're startled.

The Guardian - Travel

Every hour on the hour we are startled with remembrance of what was done for us.

The New Yorker

On the one hand, an epiphany is a surprising event; we are startled by what we've just discovered.

The New Yorker

On the opposite bank, we are startled to find a dead squirrel sprawled on its back, a bloody hole where its heart used to be.

The New York Times

The city sneaks up on us in pictures, and we are startled to see what it looks like even when what it looks like is just us, doing what we really do.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: "we were startled" often implies a less severe reaction than "we were terrified" or "we were horrified".

Common error

Avoid using "we were startled" for situations that only elicit mild surprise. Reserve it for moments of genuine, albeit brief, shock. Opt for words like "surprised" or "intrigued" when the situation is less intense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were startled" functions as a declarative statement expressing a reaction of surprise or shock. It is often used to describe a sudden, unexpected event, as shown in the Ludwig examples, where unexpected noises or sights caused the feeling.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were startled" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a sudden feeling of surprise or shock. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, primarily within the News & Media category. While "startled" implies a more intense reaction than merely "surprised", avoid overusing it for mild cases. Consider similar phrases like "we were shocked" or "we were taken aback" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were surprised

Expresses a similar feeling of unexpectedness, but often with less intensity than "startled".

we were shocked

Indicates a stronger emotional reaction, usually to something unpleasant or disturbing.

we were taken aback

Suggests a moment of hesitation or surprise, often due to unexpected news or a sudden event.

we were astonished

Implies a high degree of surprise and wonder, often in response to something impressive or remarkable.

we were amazed

Similar to "astonished", but can also suggest a feeling of delight or admiration.

we were stunned

Indicates a state of shock or disbelief, often making it difficult to react.

we were caught off guard

Highlights the unexpectedness of the event, emphasizing a lack of preparation.

we jumped

A more informal way to describe being startled by something sudden and unexpected.

we were shaken

Suggests a disturbance that goes beyond mere surprise, implying a sense of unease or anxiety.

we didn't expect that

Focuses on the lack of anticipation, highlighting the unexpected nature of the situation.

FAQs

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

"We were startled" suggests a more sudden and potentially jarring surprise, while "we were surprised" indicates a more general feeling of unexpectedness.

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

Use "we were startled" to describe a moment when you and others experienced a sudden and unexpected shock or surprise. For example, "We were startled by the loud bang coming from the kitchen."

What are some alternatives to "we were startled"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "we were shocked", "we were taken aback", or "we were astonished".

When is it appropriate to use "we were startled"?

It's appropriate when describing a sudden, often brief, moment of surprise or shock, usually caused by something unexpected and potentially alarming. Avoid using it for very mild surprise; consider alternatives like "we were intrigued" in those cases.