Translation guide
The state of being stunned, dazed, or shocked into silence or inactivity. This guide covers how to express stupefaction naturally in Japanese, from mild surprise to overwhelming shock.
Expressing a state of shock or bewilderment where one is unable to react.
Describes a state of being dumbfounded, stunned, or in a daze. Often used with とする or としている.
He was stunned when he heard the news.
I stood there in a daze.
A stronger, more literary term for being stupefied or utterly at a loss. Implies a complete loss of self-possession.
I was stupefied by the sudden dismissal.
Literally 'to lose words'. A common way to say you are so shocked or surprised that you are speechless.
I was speechless at the sight.
To be dumbfounded, flabbergasted. Often used when something is so unexpected or outrageous that you are left gaping.
I was dumbfounded by his rude attitude.
Describing an event, news, or sight that leaves people stunned.
A state of stupor or daze caused by substances.
呆然 (ぼうぜん) is a general state of being stunned or dazed, often from shock or surprise. 唖然 (あぜん) specifically implies being dumbfounded or flabbergasted, often with a nuance of being appalled or disgusted by something outrageous.
The English word 'stupefaction' is relatively formal and uncommon. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent that covers all uses. It is better to choose an expression based on the specific nuance: shock, speechlessness, daze, or intoxication.
The sight stupefied me.
彼は泥酔して動けなくなった。
He was stupefied with drink and couldn't move.