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receive a shock
/rɪˈsiːv ə ʃɒk/
to experience a sudden, unpleasant surprise
She received a shock when she saw the accident.
She was suddenly and unexpectedly upset by seeing the accident.
informal
to experience a sudden, unpleasant surprise or disturbance, often emotional or physical
He received a shock when he heard the bad news.
He was suddenly and unexpectedly upset by hearing the bad news.
The electric shock was so strong that he received a shock.
The electric shock was so powerful that it caused him to experience a sudden, unpleasant surprise.
This phrase is often used to describe emotional or physical reactions to unexpected events.
Collocations
receive a nasty shockto experience a very unpleasant surprisereceive a pleasant shockto experience a very pleasant surprise
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The phrase 'receive a shock' can be used in both physical and emotional contexts. Pay attention to the context to understand the intended meaning.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While 'receive a shock' is a useful phrase, avoid using it too frequently in formal writing. Opt for more precise language when possible.
Word Origin
The phrase 'receive a shock' combines the verb 'receive' with the noun 'shock,' which comes from the Old French 'choc,' meaning a collision or impact. The emotional sense of 'shock' developed in the 17th century.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. In literal contexts, it refers to physical shocks, such as electric shocks. In figurative contexts, it refers to emotional or psychological shocks.
Word Breakdown
receive
to take or be given something
roota
an indefinite article
articleshock
a sudden, unpleasant surprise or disturbance
rootEnglish Dictionary