I'm learning العربية

صَدمة — meaning in English: shock

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for shock
مُتَبَّع
صَدمة
وَسَط، أوساط
ظَلام
جُمرُك، جَمارِك
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Arabic for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native Arabic speakers often use the word صَدمة during intense emotional moments, such as receiving unexpected news or experiencing a sudden change in their lives. For instance, someone might say they felt صَدمة after a surprise announcement at work or after witnessing a shocking event in the news.
Synonyms & nuances
While صَدمة specifically denotes a shock, another similar word is مفاجأة (mufāja'ah), meaning 'surprise.' The difference lies in the emotional weight; صَدمة carries a more profound impact, often associated with distress, while مفاجأة can be neutral or even positive.
Culture
The word صَدمة has its roots in the Arabic verb صَدَمَ, which means 'to collide' or 'to hit.' This etymology reflects the suddenness implied by the word, akin to a physical impact that leaves one reeling. In the rich tapestry of Arabic literature and poetry, صَدمة is often used metaphorically to describe emotional upheaval, adding depth to the storytelling.
FAQ
Q.What does صَدمة mean in English?
صَدمة translates to 'shock' in English, referring to a sudden and often distressing surprise or emotional impact.
Q.How do I use صَدمة in a sentence?
You can use صَدمة in sentences like: 'شعرت بصدمة عندما سمعت الخبر' (I felt a shock when I heard the news). This shows how the word conveys sudden emotional responses.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using صَدمة?
A common mistake is using صَدمة in contexts where a lighter term like مفاجأة would suffice. It's important to reserve صَدمة for serious situations that involve emotional turmoil.
Learn arabic with Maspeak →
Arabic 5000