surprising
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /səˈpraɪzɪŋ/
KK: /sərˈpraɪzɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing a feeling of wonder or amazement because something is unexpected or unusual.
Example
The magician's trick was so surprising that everyone gasped in amazement.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more surprising
Superlative: most surprising
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yes, it was surprising how they turned it around in the last few minutes!
I know, right? I didn't expect that at all.
It just goes to show how unpredictable sports can be.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
astonishing
unexpected
startling
Antonyms
predictable
ordinary
unremarkable
noun
Definition
The act of causing someone to feel shock or amazement due to something unexpected.
Example
The surprising of the audience with the magician's trick left everyone in awe.
Conversation
Did you hear about the surprising news from the team yesterday?
No, what happened?
They announced a new player, and it was totally unexpected!
verb
Definition
To cause someone to feel shock or amazement, often because something unexpected happens.
Example
The magician's trick was so clever that it left the audience surprising.
Tense Forms
Past: surprised
Past Participle: surprised
Conversation
Did you see that surprising twist in the show last night?
I know, right? I didn't see it coming at all!
Exactly! It was so surprising that I had to rewind it.
Root Explanation
Surprising → It is formed from "sur-" (meaning over or above) and "prendere" (meaning to take). The word "surprising" means to take someone by surprise or to catch them off guard, as if something is happening above their expectations.
Memory Tip
Think of something that catches you 'off guard' or 'above' your expectations — 'sur-' means over, and 'prendere' means to take.
Visually Confused Words
unsurprising
uprising
sunrising