startling

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.

It was startling — the opposite of an oasis in the desert.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

That the seven of them have stuck together after more than 10 years is startling to many.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Depression and desensitization are fueled by easy access to the most startling, graphic images one could imagine, all one click away.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Turning in startling performances in such modest films as “Steve” and “Small Things Like These.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

“He’s in Heaven, with Papa Dios,” Abuela said behind me, startling me out of the brooding sorrow that pressed against my chest.

From "When I Was Puerto Rican" by Esmeralda Santiago