Translation guide
The English phrase 'be surprised' describes a reaction to something unexpected. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the verb 驚く (odoroku), but there are also other expressions depending on the degree of surprise and formality.
Expressing that someone is surprised by something unexpected or startling.
The most common and versatile verb for 'be surprised'. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
その知らせを聞いて驚いた。
I was surprised to hear the news.
彼の突然の訪問に驚いた。
I was surprised by his sudden visit.
A very common, slightly more casual and emphatic way to say 'be surprised'. Often used for sudden or startling surprises.
大きな音にびっくりした。
I was startled by the loud noise.
プレゼントをもらってびっくりした。
I was surprised to receive a present.
Passive form of 驚かす (to surprise), meaning 'to be surprised' by someone or something. Emphasizes the cause of the surprise.
彼の才能には驚かされる。
I am amazed by his talent.
A formal, literary term for being astonished or shocked. Used in writing or formal speech.
その結果に驚愕した。
I was astonished by the result.
Expressing surprise mixed with admiration or wonder.
To be impressed or admire, often with a nuance of being pleasantly surprised by someone's skill or effort.
彼の努力に感心した。
I was impressed by his effort.
A formal, literary term for being filled with wonder or admiration. Often used in written language.
その美しさに驚嘆した。
I marveled at its beauty.
Expressing a sudden, often physical reaction to something unexpected, sometimes with fear.
To be startled or taken aback, often with a sense of shock or fright. Describes a sudden, involuntary reaction.
突然の物音にぎょっとした。
I was startled by the sudden noise.
To be startled or to suddenly realize something. Often used when something catches you off guard.
彼の言葉にはっとした。
I was taken aback by his words.
Both mean 'be surprised', but びっくりする is more colloquial and often implies a sudden, physical reaction. 驚く is more general and can be used in formal contexts. びっくりする is not typically used in very formal writing.
彼の成功に驚いた。
I was surprised by his success. (neutral/formal)
彼の成功にびっくりした。
I was surprised by his success. (casual, more emphatic)
Avoid directly translating 'be surprised' as 驚いている (odoroku in te-iru form) unless you specifically mean 'is in a state of surprise'. The simple past form 驚いた is more natural for 'I was surprised'.
驚かないで。
Don't be surprised.
そのニュースに驚いた。
I was surprised by the news.
彼女は彼を見て驚いた。
She was surprised to see him.