Skip to main content
consternation

consternation

17 7.7
A sudden feeling of worry and shock when something unexpected happens
  • noun
  • /ˌkɒnstərˈneɪʃən/
translation icon : consternación
  • There was a moment of consternation in the room when the power suddenly went out.
  • cause consternation
  • much consternation
  • great consternation

And this is where I think a lot of the consternation and misconception arises.

Autoplay Next

Examples

  • When the first news of the Czar's proclamation was heard, there was consternation throughout Finland.

    Fiction book (1992)
  • Susannah put a hand to her breastbone in a mingling of surprise, consternation, and amusement.

    Fiction book (2001)
  • And that sent a lot of consternation throughout the scientific community.

  • This incident appears to have created some consternation in the Oval office.

  • A heavy sea made the attack unsuccessful, and there was much consternation about repairs to the French fleet.

    Academic text (1992)
  • Many residents have expressed consternation over the potential for exposure and subsequent health effects from the ponds.

    Academic text (2002)
  • Suddenly, Aaron comes flying into view, out of breath, a look of utter consternation on his face.

    Fiction book (1992)
  • The idea of multiculturalism generates consternation and confusion among many who work in community college settings.

    Academic text (1995)
  • Throughout the years of his tenure, Bushnell sparked intellectual conflict and the consternation of both conservatives and liberals.

    Academic text (2010)
  • The state legislative delegation also included thirty-two African Americans, much to the sullen consternation of Georgia whites.

    Academic text (2011)

Synonyms

shock
vsconsternation
567 2.3

A sudden strong feeling of surprise and distress after an unexpected event

includes anxiety and confusion as key features not just surprise or disbelief
alarm
vsconsternation
159 2.3

A sudden feeling of fear or worry about danger

is broader sudden anxiety or shock not only tied to real danger
dismay
vsconsternation
49 3.4

A sudden strong feeling of worry or shock caused by something unexpected

is mainly sudden anxiety and confusion caused by something frightening
fluster
vsconsternation
1 4.9

A short time of nervous confusion that makes you forget things

is a sudden intense anxiety or shock, not just mild agitation
disconcertion
vsconsternation
8.9

A sudden feeling of embarrassment and confusion when something unexpected happens

is more about fear-filled shock and general anxiety rather than embarrassment
disconcertment
vsconsternation
8.4

A feeling of being embarrassed and confused by something unexpected

is centered on sudden fear and shock rather than embarrassed unease

Antonyms

38 5.1

Calm control of your feelings and actions in a difficult situation

9 2.7

A state without strong feelings or worry in your mind

How Alarmed

panic
394 2.7
alarm
159 2.3
consternation
17 7.7
concern
1.5

Surface Forms

consternation singular

Morphology

consternation = consternate (opaque) = constern + ation

Although formed regularly from the verb 'consternate' + '-ation', the lexical components are learned/Latin-based and not transparent to an average B1 learner.

Etymology

Consternation comes from an old Latin verb consternare, made of con- 'together' and sternare 'to knock down' or 'to throw down'. So, think of being emotionally 'knocked down' by a sudden shock or fear, which is why consternation means a sudden feeling of anxiety, shock, or confusion.