speechless
/'spi:tʃlis/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. Temporarily unable to speak: Describes a state where a person is, for a short time, incapable of producing words, typically due to a powerful emotion such as shock, surprise, anger, or awe. 2. Struck dumb: Rendered silent, often by something overwhelming or astonishing.
Usage
The adjective "speechless" describes a temporary condition. It is often followed by a prepositional phrase beginning with "with" (e.g., speechless with rage) or "at" (e.g., speechless at the sight) to indicate the cause. It can also be used after a linking verb like "was," "were," "left," or "rendered."
Examples
- The beauty of the sunset left her completely speechless.
- He was speechless with anger when he heard the news.
- The jury's verdict rendered the defendant speechless.
- I am speechless at your generosity.
Advanced Usage
- "To be rendered speechless": To be made unable to speak. This is a more formal or emphatic construction.
- The sudden announcement rendered the entire audience speechless.
- "To be left speechless": To be in a state of speechlessness as a result of something.
- We were left speechless by the children's incredible performance.
Variants and Related Words
- Speechlessly (adverb): In a speechless manner.
- He stared speechlessly at the wreckage.
- Speechlessness (noun): The state of being speechless.
- Her speechlessness was a clear sign of her shock.
Synonyms
- Dumbfounded: Greatly astonished.
- Tongue-tied: Unable to speak, typically due to shyness or nervousness.
- Mute: Refraining from speech; silent. (Note: "Mute" can also be a more permanent condition).
- Aghast: Filled with horror or shock.
Idioms and Phrases
- (To be) struck speechless: To be suddenly made silent by a strong emotion or surprise. This is a very common collocation.
- She was struck speechless by the unexpected proposal.
Adjective
- temporarily incapable of speaking
- struck dumb
- speechless with shock