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surprise

/səˈpɹaɪz/

When used as a noun, "surprise" can be either countable (e.g., "a pleasant surprise") or uncountable depending on whether you are referring to a specific event or the general feeling of astonishment. As a verb, it is commonly used in the passive voice (e.g., "I was surprised by the news") to describe the emotion felt by the person rather than the action of the thing causing the shock.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is procrastinating on a term paper in the library.
Chloe Smith

Ryan just showed up at my dorm. Total surprise.

Chloe Smith
Maya
Maya

He probably just wants you to cover for him again.

💡
Chloe uses 'surprise' as a noun to describe Ryan's unexpected arrival. Maya's response reflects her skepticism of Ryan's motives and their established friend dynamic where she provides reality checks.

Meanings

noun

An unexpected or astonishing event, fact, or quality.

"The party was a complete surprise to her."

verb (transitive)

To cause someone to feel mild astonishment or shock by being unexpected.

"I managed to surprise him with a visit."

verb (intransitive)

To be caught off guard or unexpectedly encountered.

"The sudden rain surprised us during the hike."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error