Translation guide
Expressing strong surprise or shock in Japanese. The most natural way depends on the degree of formality, the speaker's gender, and whether the astonishment is positive or negative.
Express being astonished in everyday conversation, often as an immediate reaction.
The most common and versatile way to say 'be surprised/astonished'. Used for both positive and negative surprises. Can be used by anyone.
I was really astonished by that.
I was startled by a sudden loud noise.
Standard verb for 'be surprised/astonished'. Slightly more formal than びっくりする, but still common in speech and writing.
I was astonished by his talent.
Emphatic version of びっくりする, meaning 'be flabbergasted' or 'be utterly astonished'. More dramatic and less common.
I was absolutely astonished when I heard the news.
Express being astonished in formal situations, news reports, or writing.
Literally 'it is a surprising thing'. Used to comment on astonishing facts or events in a formal tone.
It is astonishing that he resigned.
Means 'to marvel at' or 'be astonished in admiration'. Often used for impressive achievements or beauty.
The audience was astonished by the performance.
Means 'to be stunned' or 'dumbfounded', often with a negative connotation. Stronger than 驚く.
I was stunned by the news.
Describe being in a state of astonishment, often using adjectives or stative expressions.
Express being astonished in a negative way, such as shock or dismay.
びっくりする is more colloquial and often used for sudden, momentary surprise. 驚く can be used in both casual and formal contexts and may imply a deeper or more lasting astonishment. In writing, 驚く is preferred.
I jumped in surprise.
I was astonished at his ignorance.
English 'be astonished' can sound formal. In casual Japanese, using びっくりする is much more natural than trying to directly translate 'astonished' with a stiff equivalent. Reserve 驚嘆する or 愕然とする for very specific contexts.
I was astonished to see him there.
She was astonished by the news.