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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'fright' with 惊 (jīng)

    Actions & Events
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    吃了一惊 / 受惊 / 惊 + Verb

    Explanation

    The noun/verb 惊 (jīng) means 'fright' or 'to be startled.' It commonly appears in the set phrase 吃了一惊, meaning 'to get a shock' or 'to be taken aback.' It conveys a sudden, involuntary feeling of surprise or alarm.

    Examples

    • 听到那个消息，我们都吃了一惊。

      Tīngdào nàge xiāoxi, wǒmen dōu chī le yì jīng.

      When we heard the news, we were all taken aback.

    • 她突然出现在门口，把我吓了一惊。

      Tā tūrán chūxiàn zài ménkǒu, bǎ wǒ xià le yì jīng.

      She suddenly appeared at the doorway and gave me a fright.

    • 考试成绩出来了，结果让所有人大吃一惊。

      Kǎoshì chéngjì chūlái le, jiéguǒ ràng suǒyǒu rén dà chī yì jīng.

      The exam results came out, and the outcome shocked everyone.

    Expressing 'fright' with 惊 (jīng) | Chinese Grammar