Emotions / A2

SHOK/ʃɒk/

A shock is a sudden, strong feeling of surprise, often unpleasant: a nasty shock, come as a shock, in shock. Shock can be a verb: the news shocked us. Surprise can be pleasant; shock is stronger and often bad. Electric shock is a later, physical meaning. Do not say “I was shock” — say I was shocked or it was a shock.

Meaning

A sudden, strong feeling of surprise, often unpleasant.

Examples

• “The news came as a shock to everyone.”
• “Failing the exam came as a shock.”
• “She was still in shock after the accident.”

Good to know

come as a shock. a nasty shock. Adjective: shocked. Contrast: surprise (can be pleasant).

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