What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
astoundment
Example
Her performance on stage left the audience in astoundment. [astoundment: noun]
Example
I watched in astoundment as the magician made the rabbit disappear. [astoundment: noun]
shock
Example
I was in shock when I heard the news of her sudden death. [shock: noun]
Example
The loud noise from the explosion shocked everyone in the room. [shocked: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shock is more commonly used than astoundment in everyday language. Shock is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while astoundment is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between astoundment and shock?
Both astoundment and shock can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, astoundment may sound slightly more formal due to its less frequent usage.