amazed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
amazed Word Meanings
- to cause someone to feel wonder or astonishment
- to surprise greatly
- to fill with astonishment
amazed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
amazed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈmeɪz/
US
/əˈmeɪz/
amazed Word Etymology
a- = to + maze = confuse, astonish. Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'esmaser', from Latin 'exmazare', meaning 'to be astonished'. Imagine a magician's trick that leaves you speechless, full of wonder.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Amaze is a transitive verb meaning to cause someone to feel wonder or astonishment; to surprise greatly; to fill with astonishment. It normally takes a person as its object: you amaze someone with something, or you can be amazed by something. The sense is stronger than simple surprise and often carries a sense of magic or rarity—something so striking that it feels almost extraordinary. In everyday use, 'amaze' is common with human subjects and with impressive performances, natural wonders, or unexpected feats. The adjective 'amazing' describes the thing itself; 'amazed' describes the listener’s reaction. Learn to pair amaze with 'with' or 'by' depending on construction.
Usage Reminders
- - Amaze expresses a strong sense of wonder, not just surprise.
- - Use amaze someone with something or be amazed by something.
- - Amazing describes the thing, not the act.
- - Reserve amaze for impressive, almost magical feats.
- - The subject of amaze is usually the cause of the reaction.
Common Misconceptions
- Amaze = surprise in every case; not true — amaze implies a stronger feeling of wonder.
- Amaze can describe the speaker's own reaction (I am amazed) as well as someone else's effect.
- All surprises are amazes; not all amazes are surprises.
- Using amaze with non-human objects as the direct object is awkward.
- Mixing up amazing (adjective) with amazed (past participle) instead of the verb.
Thinking Differences
Think of amaze as stronger than surprise; it's about causing wonder, not just triggering a quick startle. Learners often mix it with surprise or apply it to mundane events. Remember it takes a person as the object and can pair with with/by to show cause or reaction.
Learning Tips
- Identify sentences where amaze is used with a person as the object.
- Compare amaze with astonish and astonishment for nuance.
- Practice 'amaze someone with something' and 'be amazed by something'.
- Remember 'amazing' describes the thing, not the action.
- Use context clues to decide if the tone is magical or just surprising.
- Listen for stronger emotional impact in spoken English.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'amazed'?
A.Excited
B.Angry
C.Bored
D.Surprised
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'amazed' used correctly?
A.He was amazed at the delicious meal.
B.She was amazed by the boring movie.
C.I am amazed with the dirty room.
D.They are amazed to the sunny weather.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'amazed'?
A.Happy
B.Calm
C.Tired
D.Shocked
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite word of 'amazed'?
A.Interest
B.Intrigue
C.Apathy
D.Curiosity
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone feel amazed?
A.Bungee jumping
B.Watching paint dry
C.Eating their favorite food
D.Waiting in line at the DMV
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