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schockierend
shocking
Something that causes shock; very surprising, frightening, or outrageous.
example
Die Nachrichten über das Ausmaß der Zerstörung waren schockierend.
The news about the extent of the destruction was shocking.
schockierend
shocking
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Meanings
Usage tips
Participle as adjective
The word “schockierend” is the present participle (Partizip I) of the verb “schockieren” (to shock). It describes a thing or situation that actively causes shock. This form is used like a normal adjective.
EXAMPLE
Die Enthüllungen in dem Artikel waren für alle schockierend.
The revelations in the article were shocking to everyone.
Cause vs. feeling
Pay attention to the difference: “schockierend” (shocking) describes the cause of a feeling (e.g., a piece of news). A person who has this feeling is “schockiert” (shocked, past participle/Partizip II). The ending “-end” stands for the thing causing the feeling; the ending “-t” for the person who feels it.
EXAMPLE
Die schockierende Nachricht hat die ganze Welt schockiert.
The shocking news shocked the whole world.
Typical collocations
“Schockierend” is often used to describe unexpected and negative information or events. Common combinations are “schockierende Nachrichten” (shocking news), “schockierende Bilder” (shocking images), or “ein schockierendes Ergebnis” (a shocking result).
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei entdeckte schockierende Details über den Fall.
The police discovered shocking details about the case.
Compare with
schockierend vs überraschend
surprising
'überraschend' and 'schockierend' both describe something that was not expected. The difference lies in the intensity and the effect. 'überraschend' can be neutral, positive, or negative. It only says that something happens unexpectedly. 'schockierend' is much stronger: it frightens, hurts, or causes outrage. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with surprise. If something is only unexpected, 'überraschend' fits. If it causes a strong shock, 'schockierend' is more precise.
schockierend
Die schockierenden Nachrichten aus der Werkstatt haben unsere ganze Planung verändert.
The shocking news from the workshop changed our entire plan.
überraschend
Ihr überraschender Besuch bei den Eltern passt gut, weil der Termin erst am Nachmittag ist.
Her surprise visit to her parents works out well because the appointment is not until the afternoon.
In real life
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