What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wow
Example
Wow, that performance was incredible! [wow: interjection]
Example
The fireworks display was so wow-worthy. [wow: adjective]
surprise
Example
I wanted to surprise my friend with a birthday party. [surprise: verb]
Example
The news came as a complete surprise to everyone. [surprise: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Surprise is a more commonly used word than wow in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe both positive and negative events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wow and surprise?
While wow has a more informal and casual connotation, surprise can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile word for ESL learners to use in various situations.
