surprise
A surprise is an unexpected event, fact, or thing that happens suddenly. It also refers to the feeling of being amazed or shocked when something you did not expect occurs.
Examples
3 of 5The birthday party was a big surprise for my sister.
The birthday celebration was an unexpected event for my sister.
The sudden announcement of the merger came as a surprise to the public.
The unexpected news of the company joining was a shock to everyone.
What a surprise to see you here!
I did not expect to see you in this place!
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'Super-rise'. When you get a surprise, you might jump up or 'rise' suddenly because you are excited!
Quick Quiz
I have a big ___ for you in this gift box!
Correct!
The correct answer is: surprise
Examples
The birthday party was a big surprise for my sister.
everydayThe birthday celebration was an unexpected event for my sister.
The sudden announcement of the merger came as a surprise to the public.
formalThe unexpected news of the company joining was a shock to everyone.
What a surprise to see you here!
informalI did not expect to see you in this place!
The study's findings offered a surprise to the scientific community.
academicThe results of the research were unexpected for the scientists.
We need to ensure there is no surprise in the final budget report.
businessWe must make sure there are no unexpected costs in the financial report.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
to my surprise
meaning I was surprised when it happened
no surprise
something that was expected
surprise, surprise
an expression used when something is not actually surprising
Often Confused With
Shock is usually much stronger and often related to negative or very serious news.
Usage Notes
Surprise can be used as a countable noun (e.g., 'a surprise') for an event, or an uncountable noun for the feeling itself.
Common Mistakes
Learners often say 'I am surprise' instead of 'I am surprised' when describing their own feelings.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'Super-rise'. When you get a surprise, you might jump up or 'rise' suddenly because you are excited!
Word Origin
From the Old French 'sorprise', meaning 'a taking unawares' or 'to overtake'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking countries, surprise parties are a common way to celebrate milestones like birthdays or homecomings.
Quick Quiz
I have a big ___ for you in this gift box!
Correct!
The correct answer is: surprise
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More Emotions words
delighted
A1Delighted means being very happy and pleased about something. It is a stronger word than 'happy' and is used to show high levels of satisfaction or joy.
satisfied
A1Feeling happy or pleased because you have what you want or need. It is used to describe a person who is content with a result or a situation.
glad
A1Feeling pleasure, joy, or satisfaction about a specific situation or event. It is a common way to express happiness in response to news or a meeting.
excited
A1To feel very happy, energetic, and eager about something that is going to happen. It describes a positive emotion where you are looking forward to an event or activity.
thrilled
A1Thrilled describes a feeling of being extremely happy and excited. It is used when something very positive happens that makes you feel a sudden wave of delight.
enthusiastic
A1To be enthusiastic means showing intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval. It describes a person who is very excited and positive about something they are doing or a topic they like.
hopeful
A1A person who is hoping or trying to achieve a specific goal, such as getting a job or winning a competition. It is commonly used to describe someone who wants to succeed in politics, sports, or entertainment.
grateful
A1Feeling or showing thanks to someone for something they have done or given to you. It is used to express appreciation for help, kindness, or a positive situation.
enjoy
A1The feeling of pleasure and satisfaction that you get from an activity or experience. It describes the state of having a good time or liking something very much.
gentle
A1Describes someone or something that is kind, mild, and calm. It refers to a way of acting that is not rough, violent, or loud.
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