What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
surprising
Example
It was surprising to see her at the party after she said she couldn't make it. [surprising: adjective]
Example
The sudden change in weather was surprising to everyone. [surprising: gerund or present participle]
amazing
Example
The view from the top of the mountain was amazing. [amazing: adjective]
Example
She has an amazing talent for playing the piano. [amazing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Amazing is more commonly used than surprising in everyday language. Amazing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while surprising is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between surprising and amazing?
Both surprising and amazing can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, amazing is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.