Translation guide
Expressing strong surprise or shock in Japanese. The most common and versatile word is 驚く (odoroku), but there are many nuanced expressions for different degrees and flavors of astonishment.
To express that you are surprised or astonished by something unexpected.
The most common and versatile verb for 'to be surprised/astonished'. Can be used in many contexts.
I was astonished to hear the news.
A very common, slightly more casual and onomatopoeic way to say 'to be surprised/astonished'. Often used for sudden surprises.
I was startled by a sudden loud noise.
Transitive verb meaning 'to surprise/astonish someone'. Often used in passive form 驚かされる.
To express a stronger degree of astonishment, often leaving you speechless or overwhelmed.
Means 'to be flabbergasted/astonished'. Stronger than 驚く, often used for shocking news.
To express that you are astonished in a positive way, often with admiration or awe.
To be impressed/admiringly astonished. Often used for someone's skill or effort.
To express that you are caught off guard or astonished by something unforeseen.
To be taken by surprise, caught off guard. Often used when someone does something unexpected.
I am astonished by his talent.
プレゼントをもらってびっくりした。
I was astonished to receive a present.
His actions astonished everyone.
I was astonished when I heard the price.
To be astonished in a negative way, often with a sense of being appalled or disgusted. Implies 'I can't believe it'.
I was astonished by his irresponsibility.
To be stunned, dumbfounded, or in a daze from astonishment. Often used when you can't react.
I was stunned by the sudden news.
I was astonished by his effort.
To marvel at, to be filled with wonder and astonishment. More formal/literary.
I was astonished by its beauty.
I was taken aback by his question.
Similar to 不意を突かれる, but emphasizes being hit where you are vulnerable or off guard. Slightly more literary.
I was astonished by that pointed remark.
I was surprised! (casual)
While there are many words for 'astonished', using overly literal or rare words like 愕然とする (がくぜんとする) in everyday speech can sound unnatural. Stick to common words like 驚く or びっくりする unless you need a specific nuance.