surprise

[səˈpraɪz]

surprise Definition

an unexpected or astonishing event, fact, or thing.

Using surprise: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "surprise" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The party was a complete surprise.

  • Example

    She opened the box with surprise.

  • Example

    To my surprise, he showed up at my door.

  • Example

    The surprise attack caught the enemy off guard.

surprise Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for surprise

Antonyms for surprise

Idioms Using surprise

  • used to express that something is not surprising at all

    Example

    He failed the exam again, no surprise there.

  • surprise, surprise

    used to express sarcastic amazement at something that is not surprising

    Example

    He was late for the meeting, surprise, surprise.

  • an unpleasant or unwelcome shock

    Example

    The high bill was a nasty surprise for the couple.

Phrases with surprise

  • to catch someone off guard or unprepared

    Example

    The sudden rain took us by surprise.

  • surprise, surprise

    used to express sarcastic amazement at something that is not surprising

    Example

    He was late for the meeting, surprise, surprise.

  • something or someone that is unexpectedly good or useful

    Example

    The new employee turned out to be a surprise package, bringing fresh ideas and skills to the team.

Origins of surprise

from Old French 'surprendre', meaning 'to overtake'

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Summary: surprise in Brief

The term 'surprise' [səˈpraɪz] refers to an unexpected or astonishing event, fact, or thing. It can be used to describe a wide range of situations, from pleasant surprises like 'The party was a complete surprise,' to negative ones like 'The surprise attack caught the enemy off guard.' The phrase 'take by surprise' means to catch someone off guard, while 'surprise, surprise' is used sarcastically to express a lack of surprise.

How do native speakers use this expression?