吃惊
How to Say
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How to Write
Meaning: startled
How to Understand
吃惊
吃惊 means 'startled' or 'shocked' in English. It describes a sudden feeling of surprise, often due to something unexpected or alarming.
The character 吃 (chī) literally means 'to eat,' but in this compound word, it is used as a verb meaning 'to experience' or 'to undergo.' 惊 (jīng) means 'surprise' or 'fear.' Together, they convey the idea of being suddenly startled or shocked.
吃惊 is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe reactions to unexpected events. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. A related expression is 吃一惊 (chī yī jīng), which means 'to startle' or 'to be shocked.'
Example Sentences
他听到这个消息后吃了一惊。
He was startled when he heard the news.
她看到那只大狗时吃了一惊。
She was startled when she saw the big dog.