will only startle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "will only startle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something will cause surprise or shock, but only to a limited extent or under specific conditions. Example: "The sudden noise will only startle the cat if it is already feeling anxious."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Panicking will only startle it".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Peregrine's disclosures not only startled investors but also provided ammunition for critics of Andersen, the embattled accounting firm.

The New York Times

But she was not burned, only startled by the heat.

Vice

Again, the same regression analysis was conducted by reversing the step order for SCR and startle, but only startle had a significant association with hyper-arousal symptoms (see β values in Table 3B).

Depression and Anxiety

The falling petals and raindrops from branches and leaves are the only things that will startle you.

Huffington Post

This announcement will startle many, but few will be grieved by it".

Wikipedia

Cats will be startled not only by the noise, but by the water as well.

WikiHow

But even in that first story, the innate superiority of man is stated with a harshness that will startle anyone whose only image of Mowgli comes courtesy of Disney.

The Guardian - Film

You'll say, "Doing O.K.?" He will startle at your presence.

The New Yorker

Killing a boomer will make it explode and this WILL startle the witch.

WikiHow

This is why Mr Sarkozy's words will both startle and soothe American ears.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "will only startle" when you want to convey that an action or event will cause a brief and mild surprise, without significant negative consequences. This suggests a minimal disruption or reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "will only startle" when the actual impact is more significant. Using it to describe a situation that causes genuine fear or distress can minimize the effect and mislead the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "will only startle" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a prediction or expectation about the effect of an action or event. It indicates that the action will cause a mild surprise or shock, but nothing more severe. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "will only startle" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that something will cause a brief and mild surprise. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in news, general writing and scientific writing. However, it is important to use it accurately, ensuring that the described event genuinely causes only a minimal surprise and does not understate a more significant impact. Alternatives like "will merely surprise" or "will just shock" can be considered for nuanced expression. When in doubt, consider the register and intended audience to ensure appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

will merely surprise

This alternative suggests a weaker reaction than "startle", implying a simple, fleeting surprise.

will just shock

This suggests a sudden impact, but limited in scope or duration, being slightly stronger than 'startle'.

will slightly alarm

Focuses more on causing mild concern or apprehension rather than a sudden jump.

will briefly surprise

Emphasizes the short duration of the surprise, highlighting its temporary nature.

will cause a slight fright

This alternative puts emphasis on the feeling of fear, even if mild.

will give a mild shock

Similar to "just shock" but with an emphasis on the 'mild' intensity of the feeling.

will momentarily perturb

Perturb implies a slight disturbance or unsettlement, less intense than a startle.

will briefly disconcert

Disconcert suggests a mild feeling of unease or confusion, rather than a physical startle.

will only unsettle

Focuses on disturbing the peace of mind, with a connotation of making someone anxious.

will cause a small jump

This alternative is very literal, focusing on the physical reaction more than the emotional feeling.

FAQs

How can I use "will only startle" in a sentence?

You can use "will only startle" to indicate that something will cause a brief and mild surprise. For example, "The loud noise "will only startle" the cat, not scare it."

What are some alternatives to "will only startle"?

Some alternatives include "will merely surprise", "will just shock", or "will slightly alarm", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "will only startle" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In formal academic writing, a more precise term like "will briefly perturb" might be preferable for greater clarity.

What is the difference between "will only startle" and "will frighten"?

"Will only startle" implies a brief, mild surprise, while "will frighten" indicates a stronger feeling of fear or alarm. The first suggests a minimal, temporary effect, while the second suggests a more significant emotional impact.