What is startling? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of startling

startlingadjective

/ˈstɑːtlɪŋ//ˈstɑːrtlɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "startling." It's a tricky one because of the "rt" combination! Here's a breakdown:

1. Core Sound:

  • "star" - Pronounce this like "star" as in a star in the sky. Think of the short "a" sound, like in "cat." (IPA: /stɑːr/)

2. The "rt" Combination:

  • This is the tricky part! The “rt” is pronounced as a single sound, similar to the "r" in "red." However, it's a flapped R. This means you quickly tap your tongue against the roof of your mouth. It's a very light, quick sound – almost like a very short "d" sound. (IPA: /ɜːrt/)

3. The Rest of the Word:

  • "ling" - Pronounce this like "ling" as in "spring." (IPA: /lɪŋ/)

Putting it All Together:

The entire word "startling" is pronounced something like: "STAR-tling"

  • Stress the first syllable ("STAR").
  • The "rt" is a quick, tapped "r" sound, almost blending into the "t."

Tips for Practicing:

  • Listen to Audio Examples: The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some helpful audio resources:

  • Slow it Down: Start by saying each syllable individually and focusing on the "star" and "ling" sounds.

  • Practice the "rt" Sound: Practice just the "rt" combination. Say "red," then "rat," then quickly tap your tongue against the roof of your mouth between those words.

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying "startling" and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Break down any specific part of the pronunciation?
  • Give you some similar words to practice?

Usage and examples with the word startling in English

Let's break down how to use the word "startling" in English. It's a great word with a specific nuance!

1. Core Meaning:

"Startling" primarily describes something that causes a sudden, unexpected, and often unsettling surprise. It's more intense than just "surprising." Think of it as something that makes you jump, gasp, or feel a bit shocked.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Adjective: This is the most common way to use "startling." It describes a noun.
    • Example: "The startling news of the company's bankruptcy left everyone speechless."
    • Example: "She gave a startling performance that brought the house down."

3. How to Use It as an Adjective – Examples & Nuances:

  • Unexpectedness is Key: The surprise element is crucial. "Startling" implies a level of surprise that goes beyond simply being unusual.

    • Compared to "surprising": "Surprising" is milder. “Surprising” might mean something pleasant or intriguing. "Startling" is more likely to be negative or jarring.

  • Emotional Response: "Startling" often suggests an emotional reaction – shock, fear, or amazement.

    • Example: "The startling silence after his announcement was deafening." (Implies a feeling of unease.)
    • Example: "The startling beauty of the sunset took her breath away." (Implies awe and a strong reaction.)

  • Often Used with Negative Connotations (but not always): While it can describe something beautiful or impressive, "startling" more frequently describes something unsettling or disturbing.

    • "A startling revelation" – suggests something bad or hidden.
    • "A startling statistic" – suggests something shocking and possibly concerning.

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Shocking
  • Astonishing
  • Startle
  • Surprising
  • Unexpected
  • Disturbing
  • Ironic (sometimes, depending on context)

5. Example Sentences (Showcasing Different Uses):

  • "The startling scream echoed through the empty house." (Fear/Alarm)
  • "He delivered a startling confession during the trial." (Shocking/Unusual)
  • "The startling contrast between the vibrant colors and the bleak landscape was captivating." (A mix of surprise and beauty)
  • "Her sudden appearance at the party was a startling surprise." (Unexpected – potentially positive or negative, depending on the context.)

6. Tips for Using It Effectively:

  • Consider the context: Is the surprise positive, negative, or neutral?
  • Show the reaction: Sometimes it's helpful to add a phrase to show how something was startling (e.g., "left him speechless," "made her jump," "caused a gasp").

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more specific examples based on a particular situation?
  • Help you craft a sentence using "startling"?
  • Explain how "startling" differs from other similar words?

Synonyms for the word startling

Practice with vocabulary startling

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The latest market analysis presented a truly __________________ correlation between consumer spending habits and the global economic downturn, defying earlier predictions.
  2. Her ability to recall complex data sets and deliver presentations without notes is quite __________________, making her a valuable asset to the team.
  3. The sudden revelation of the company's Q3 losses was a __________________ blow to investor confidence, leading to an immediate stock price drop.
  4. We must remain __________________ to new scientific discoveries, even if they challenge our long-held assumptions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words best describes an unexpected and profoundly surprising development in a research study that dramatically changes its direction? a) conventional b) anticipated c) startling d) predictable

  2. After months of meticulous effort, the team's successful launch of the new product was truly __________________. a) mundane b) expected c) trivial d) commendable e) noteworthy

  3. The news of the CEO's abrupt resignation was quite __________________ given the company's recent success and stable outlook. a) reassuring b) startling c) comforting d) foreseen e) alarming

  4. Which of the following adjectives could be used to describe an unexpected sound or event that causes a sudden, brief moment of fear or surprise? a) soothing b) startling c) calming d) shocking e) alarming

  5. The architect's innovative design for the new sustainable building was widely praised for its __________________ use of recycled materials. a) unremarkable b) ingenious c) ordinary d) uninspired e) creative

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The sudden and unexpected drop in quarterly profits really surprised the board members. (Rewrite using "startling" or a related word form)
  2. His frank comments about the project's shortcomings were very surprising to everyone present at the meeting. (Rewrite using "startling" or a related word form)
  3. The team achieved a truly amazing breakthrough in renewable energy technology. (Rewrite without using "startling" or its forms)

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. startling
  2. impressive
  3. startling
  4. receptive

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) startling
  2. d) commendable, e) noteworthy
  3. b) startling, e) alarming
  4. b) startling, d) shocking, e) alarming
  5. b) ingenious, e) creative

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The startling drop in quarterly profits really surprised the board members.
  2. His startlingly frank comments about the project's shortcomings surprised everyone present at the meeting.
  3. The team achieved a truly remarkable breakthrough in renewable energy technology.

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