What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
amazed
Example
I was amazed by the beautiful sunset over the ocean. [amazed: adjective]
Example
She amazed the audience with her incredible singing voice. [amazed: verb]
astonished
Example
I was astonished to hear that she had won the lottery. [astonished: adjective]
Example
He was astonished by the news of his promotion. [astonished: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Amazed is more commonly used than astonished in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between amazed and astonished?
Both amazed and astonished are suitable for formal and informal contexts, but astonished may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its intensity and less frequent usage.