astonish - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
astonish Word Meanings
- greatly surprised
- filled with wonder
- shocked by something unexpected
astonish Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
astonish Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈstɒnɪʃ/
US
/əˈstɑnɪʃ/
astonish Word Etymology
as- = to, tonere = to make heavy; Latin 'astonire' → Old French 'estoner' → English. Imagine someone’s face going pale and their jaw dropping in amazement when they see something incredible.
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
Astonish is a strong transitive verb meaning to cause great surprise or awe in someone. It implies more than a simple surprise and is closer to being impressed or amazed, but with an emphasis on vivid, often sudden reaction. We typically say "astonish someone by" something or "astonish at how" something unfolds. The subject intentionally provokes the astonishment in the object. It is more formal than 'surprise' and less intense than 'amaze' or 'stun' in everyday speech. Common collocations include 'astonish greatly', 'astonish with', and passive forms like 'be astonished by'. People often confuse it with 'amaze' or with the adjective 'astonished'; remember the verb form requires an object and active causation.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: astonish is transitive; you must have a person or thing as the object. Be astonished is an intransitive passive form. Use 'astonish' with 'by' or 'with' in some constructions. It often describes vivid, dramatic surprises. It is stronger than 'surprise' but not as intense as 'stun'. Common pattern: astonish someone with something; be astonished by something.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing with 'amaze' or 'surprise' in everyday speech
- Using 'astonish' in intransitive contexts (no object)
- Forgetting the object is the thing that is astonished
- Mixing up 'be astonished by' vs 'astonish by' (incorrect preposition)
- Overusing the term in casual writing when milder surprise would fit
Thinking Differences
A native English speaker tends to view astonish as a formal, vivid way to describe a strong, often surprising reaction. Learners may overuse it in casual speech or confuse it with amaze. Remember: it is transitive and the person/object of astonishment is the focus, not the observer.
Learning Tips
- Keep astonish for strong, vivid surprises; reserve amaze for admiration
- Remember its object-pairing: 'astonish someone with something' or 'be astonished by something'
- Practice with diverse subjects to avoid generic contexts
- Compare with surprise and amaze to feel the nuance
- Use passive form correctly: 'be astonished by' rather than 'astonished' alone
- Include a clear cause or reason in examples
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'astonish'?
A.To impress someone with skill
B.To cause someone to feel great surprise
C.To talk persistently
D.To create a work of art
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correctly used sentence with 'astonish'.
A.I was astonish by the time it took to finish.
B.Seeing the mountain left me astonish.
C.The magician did astonishing tricks that amazed the audience.
D.His performance didn't astonish the judges at all.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'astonish'?
A.Surprise
B.Bore
C.Annoy
D.Confuse
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'astonish'?
A.Amaze
B.Impress
C.Disappoint
D.Delight
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario that would leave people amazed?
A.The fireworks display was a sight to behold.
B.I had a mundane day at work.
C.The concert was less than thrilling.
D.The new movie did not impress the audience.
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