startling

• Décrit quelque chose de très surprenant, choquant ou alarmant, qui provoque une réaction soudaine d'étonnement ou de peur.

Describes something that is very surprising, shocking, or alarming.

1. Surprising or shockingB2formal

   So remarkably different or sudden as to cause momentary shock or alarm.

   Étonnant, saisissant

   • The news of his resignation was startling to everyone.
   • She made a startling discovery in the old library.
   • The sudden change in temperature was quite startling.

   Synonymesalarmingastonishingastoundingextraordinaryjoltingshockingstaggeringstunningsurprisingunexpected

   Antonymescommonplaceexpectedordinarypredictableunsurprising

• Verbe utilisé pour désigner l'action de provoquer chez quelqu'un un choc soudain ou une surprise, souvent en raison d'un événement ou d'un geste inattendu.

A verb used to indicate the act of causing someone to feel sudden shock or surprise, often by an unexpected event or action.

1. Surprise or alarm suddenlyB1formal

   To cause a person or animal to feel sudden shock or alarm, often resulting in a quick movement.

   Faire sursauter

   • The loud thunder startled the dog.
   • She was startled by a sudden knock on the door.
   • The unexpected news startled everyone in the room.

   Synonymesalarmdismayflusterfrightenjoltpanicperturbscareshockstunsurpriseunsettle

   Antonymescalmcomfortreassuresoothe

2. Stimulate to actionB2formal

   To jolt someone into sudden awareness or activity, often breaking a state of inaction.

   Stimuler à agir

   • The alarm clock startled him out of a deep sleep.
   • Her sharp comment startled him into responding.
   • The crisis startled the government into taking immediate measures.

   Synonymesgalvanizejoltprodrouseshockspurstir

   Antonymescalmlullpacifysoothe

3. Move suddenly in surpriseB1formal

   To make a quick, involuntary movement as a reaction to something unexpected.

   sursauter

   • He startled back when the snake appeared.
   • The cat startled at the sound of a falling vase.
   • She startled and dropped her book when the phone rang.

   Synonymesflinchjerkjumpstarttwitchwince