Basic Details
Word: Aghast
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Filled with shock or fear; surprised in a very unpleasant way.
Synonyms: Astounded, horrified, shocked
Antonyms: Unfazed, calm, composed
Idioms and Phrases
- Catch someone aghast: To surprise someone so much that they are left speechless. Example: "Her sudden announcement about moving abroad caught everyone aghast."
- Stand aghast: To remain frozen in shock or disbelief. Example: "They all stood aghast when they realised what had happened."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The children were aghast when they saw the enormous, scary ghost in the haunted house.
Example 2: He was aghast at the sight of the messy room after the party ended.
Example 3: The audience was left aghast when the magician performed his final, unbelievable trick.
Fun Fact
The word "aghast" comes from the Old English word "gst," which means "to frighten or terrify." This word has been used for many centuries to describe intense shock or fear.
Famous Quote
"I was aghast at the notion that someone could be so cruel." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "aghast" mean?
a) Happy
b) In shock or fear
c) Tired
d) Confused
Answer: b) In shock or fear
2. Which of these is a synonym of "aghast"?
a) Calm
b) Astounded
c) Composed
d) Happy
Answer: b) Astounded
3. Which word is an antonym of "aghast"?
a) Shocked
b) Unfazed
c) Horrified
d) Astounded
Answer: b) Unfazed
4. Which sentence uses "aghast" correctly?
a) She was aghast when she won the award.
b) He felt aghast when he received a surprise gift.
c) The students were aghast when they saw the surprising results of the exam.
d) I am aghast with joy over my birthday party.
Answer: c) The students were aghast when they saw the surprising results of the exam.
5. Which idiom means to be very shocked?
a) To catch someone aghast
b) To jump for joy
c) To walk on air
d) To be in hot water
Answer: a) To catch someone aghast
