What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
staggered
Example
The drunk man staggered down the street. [staggered: verb]
Example
The company's profits have been staggered over the past few years. [staggered: adjective]
Example
I was staggered by the news of her sudden death. [staggered: past tense]
surprise
Example
The surprise party was a huge success. [surprise: noun]
Example
I was surprised to see my old friend at the airport. [surprised: adjective]
Example
She tried to surprise her husband with a romantic dinner. [surprise: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Surprise is more commonly used than staggered in everyday language. Surprise is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while staggered is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between staggered and surprise?
Surprise is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while staggered is typically associated with a more formal tone and is less commonly used in everyday language.
