What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aback
Example
I was taken aback by the news of his sudden resignation. [aback: adverb]
Example
She was completely caught aback by the surprise party. [aback: adjective]
astonished
Example
I was astonished by the beauty of the sunset over the ocean. [astonished: adjective]
Example
He was completely astonished when he won the lottery. [astonished: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Astonished is more commonly used than aback in everyday language, especially in spoken English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aback and astonished?
Aback is considered more formal or literary than astonished, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
