What is shocking? Pronunciation and usage in English

shocking means . Learn how to pronounce and use shocking through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of shocking

shockingadjective

/ˈʃɒkɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of shocking

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "shocking" in English. It's a tricky one because it sounds different from how it's spelled!

Here's a breakdown:

  • "shock": This part is pronounced like "mock" – similar to the word “mock” as in “mockingbird”. The "sh" sound is a quick, almost breathy "sh" as in "ship."

  • "ing": This is pronounced like "ing" as in "sing."

Putting it together:

It sounds like "mock-ing"

Here's a helpful breakdown with phonetic symbols (approximate):

/ˈʃɒkɪŋ/

  • ˈʃɒk – stress is on this syllable. /ʃɒk/ (sh-ock) – like "mock"
  • ɪŋ – Pronounced as “ing” as in “sing.” /ɪŋ/

Resources for Hearing It:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/shocking/ – This is a fantastic website where you can hear native speakers say the word.
  • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce shocking" on YouTube. You'll find many videos with clear pronunciations.

Tips:

  • Don't overemphasize the "sh": It's a very subtle "sh" sound.
  • Keep it flowing: The “mock-ing” sound should be a smooth transition.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you more words to practice with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word shocking in English

Let's break down how to use the word "shocking" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. Core Meaning: Extremely surprising or disturbing

  • Most Common Use: This is the most frequent way "shocking" is used. It describes something that causes a sudden, unpleasant, and often unsettling surprise.

    • Example: "The news of the company’s bankruptcy was shocking." (Meaning: It was unbelievably surprising and upsetting.)
    • Example: "I found her reaction to the accident absolutely shocking." (Meaning: Her reaction was disturbing and unexpected.)

2. Describing Behavior/Actions (Often Negative)

  • "Shocking" is frequently used to describe morally objectionable, outrageous, or appalling behavior. It implies a level of offense.

    • Example: "His abusive language was shocking."
    • Example: “The politician’s comments about refugees were shocking and deeply offensive.”
    • Example: "It was shocking to see children begging for food."

3. Describing Visuals (Sudden and Striking)

  • Sometimes, "shocking" can be used to describe something visually striking – bright colors, dramatic imagery – but it usually carries a slightly negative connotation (suggesting something overwhelming or jarring).

    • Example: “The shocking pink of the flamingo’s feathers stood out against the green water.” (This is less common, but possible.)

4. Figurative Use (Less Common)

  • Occasionally, it can be used figuratively to describe something moving or upsetting on an emotional level.

    • Example: “The film’s ending was shocking; I couldn't believe it.” (Meaning: It was deeply emotionally jarring.)

Important Considerations & Alternatives:

  • Strong Language: "Shocking" is a strong word. Use it judiciously. It's better to use a more precise word if possible.

  • Alternatives: Depending on the specific context, consider these words as alternatives:

    • Surprising: (general surprise)
    • Disturbing: (causes emotional distress)
    • Outrageous: (violates standards of decency)
    • Appalling: (horrible, shocking)
    • Unbelievable: (difficult to believe)
    • Distressing: (causing distress)
    • Horrifying: (causing horror)

Here's a breakdown of when "shocking" fits best, with examples:

Category Example Explanation
Surprise/Impact "The sudden rainstorm was shocking." Unexpected and impactful.
Morally Wrong "The theft was shocking." Outrageous and morally reprehensible.
Emotional Response "Her confession was shocking; I was stunned." Caused a strong, unsettling emotional reaction.
Visual Impact "The shocking crimson sunset was beautiful but intense." Visually striking, perhaps overwhelming.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What context are you thinking of using "shocking" in? (e.g., describing a news story, a personal experience, a piece of art?)

Synonyms for the word shocking

Practice with vocabulary shocking

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The sudden downturn in the global economy was a truly _____________ development for many financial analysts.
  2. Security personnel found the abandoned briefcase in the lobby quite _____________, prompting an immediate evacuation.
  3. The final results of the experiment, while certainly _____________, confirmed the initial hypothesis.
  4. Reports of the company's unethical practices were deeply _____________ to its loyal customers and investors.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (Select ALL that apply)

  1. Which words describe the CEO's abrupt resignation after a decade of successful leadership? a) surprising b) expected c) shocking d) predictable

  2. The team faced an _____________ challenge when their main server crashed just hours before the project deadline. a) effortless b) daunting c) manageable d) simple

  3. The investigative report revealed a series of _____________ lapses in cybersecurity that compromised sensitive data. a) minor b) negligible c) shocking d) alarming

  4. The new policy, aimed at streamlining operations, was met with _____________ resistance from veteran employees. a) significant b) minimal c) inconsequential d) trivial

  5. Discovering the extent of the data breach was a _____________ moment for the IT department, triggering immediate protocol changes. a) trivial b) disturbing c) shocking d) calming

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The news that the leading candidate withdrew from the election at the last minute caused great surprise among the public. Rewrite using a form of "shock."

  2. Many investors were extremely surprised by the unprecedented volatility in the stock market last quarter. Rewrite using a strong synonym for "surprised," but do not use "shocking" or its related forms.

  3. His unexpected dismissal from the board of directors, given his long-standing contributions, was profoundly disturbing to many colleagues. Rewrite using "shocking."

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. shocking
  2. alarming
  3. unexpected
  4. shocking

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) surprising, c) shocking
  2. b) daunting
  3. c) shocking, d) alarming
  4. a) significant
  5. b) disturbing, c) shocking

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The leading candidate's last-minute withdrawal from the election was shocking news to the public.
  2. Many investors were astonished by the unprecedented volatility in the stock market last quarter.
  3. His unexpected dismissal from the board of directors, given his long-standing contributions, was profoundly shocking to many colleagues.

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