All Ears English Podcast AEE 2396: What Gives? English Vocabulary For Expressing Surprise
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Apr 23, 2025 Discover six distinct phrases to express surprise in English. The hosts share personal travel experiences, emphasizing the joy of connecting with locals and the ease of crossing borders. Explore how tone and context influence expressions of shock in conversation. Learn how to master reported speech and its role in storytelling, illustrating emotions through surprise. Techniques to amplify surprise and engage audiences in storytelling are also discussed, showcasing the power of intonation.
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Surprise Border Experience
- Lindsay McMahon shared a personal story of unexpectedly no wait at the Mexican border and a joyful connection with locals in Spanish.
- This illustrates the thrill and surprise of travel and language learning experiences.
Use "What Gives" for Frustration
- Use "what gives" to express mild surprise mixed with irritation or frustration.
- It fits contexts where something unexpected is annoying, not positive.
"What's Up" Shows Surprise Or Greeting
- Use "what's up" or "what's up with that" to show surprise or question unexpected behavior.
- It can also be a casual greeting, so tone and context matter.