be startled
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But even jaded readers will be startled by the scope of the self-organizing tyranny besetting the book world.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 28, 2026
While advocating for tougher social media regulation on a panel about disinformation, Janja Lula da Silva appeared to be startled by a loud noise, joking, "I think it's Elon Musk."
From BBC ● Nov. 17, 2024
A person with Tourette disorder might be startled by each separate sound, especially if it increases in volume.
From Science Daily ● May 6, 2024
Yet in my role as publisher of The New York Times, I continue to be startled by the growing resistance to independent journalism.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 8, 2024
She went to bed sometime between eight and eight-thirty only to be startled awake later when a horse-and-wagon clattered past her window at high speed.
From "The Great Fire" by Jim Murphy
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