A2adjective2K

Surprising

UK /["/səˈpraɪzɪŋ/"]/US /["/sərˈpraɪzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

causing surprise

In simple words: Causing wonder or shock because it is unexpected.

Examples

  • The magician performed a surprising trick that left everyone in awe.
  • It was surprising to see how quickly the flowers bloomed in spring.
  • Her surprising reaction to the news caught us all off guard.
  • The surprising result of the game shocked both teams.
  • They had a surprising announcement that changed the company's direction.
  • His surprising talent for singing was revealed during the party.

Usage notes

Use 'surprising' for events or information that are not what someone expects. It's appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid using it in formal writing when a more precise adjective could fit better.

Grammar pattern

surprising + object

Memory hint

Think of 'surprise' — when something is surprising, it catches you off guard.

Collocations

  • be
  • seem
  • make something
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • astonishing
  • amazing
  • incredible
  • stunning
  • shocking

Antonyms

  • expected
  • predictable
  • usual

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'surprise' as a noun instead of the adjective.
  • Using 'surprising' when 'surprised' is the correct form (for the feeling).
  • Overusing the word in formal contexts instead of replacing it with a more specific description.