sorprendente
/sor.prenˈdɛn.te/
The Italian word for striking is sorprendente.
The adjective sorprendente is used to describe something that makes a strong impression. It is more closely related to the English meaning of 'surprising'.
Meaning: of that which makes a strong impression (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the verb sorprendere, which means 'to surprise'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective sorprendente is invariable in gender, so it remains the same for both masculine and feminine singular nouns. For plural nouns, the form changes to sorprendenti, which is used for both masculine and feminine plurals.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /sor.prenˈdɛn.te/. It has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using sorprendente if you mean 'striking' in the sense of physically hitting something, as the word is related to the concept of surprise rather than physical impact.
Did you know?
- The verb sorprendere is used in Italian to describe 'catching' someone in the act of doing something, such as sorprendere qualcuno a mentire for 'catching someone lying'.
- While sorprendente means 'striking', Italians use the verb colpire, meaning 'to hit', to say they were 'struck' by a person's beauty or a new idea.
- The noun sorpresa, which shares a root with sorprendente, is commonly used to refer to a 'treat' or an unexpected gift.
Examples in context
- L'architettura di questo edificio è davvero impressionante!The architecture of this building is truly striking!
- La vista dalla cima della montagna è davvero spettacolare!The view from the top of the mountain is truly striking!
- Ho visto uno spettacolo di danza strabiliante ieri sera!I watched a truly striking dance performance last night!
- È una notizia sorprendente.It is striking news.
- Ha una bellezza sorprendente.She has a striking beauty.
- Il risultato è sorprendente.The result is striking.
Example conversation
Francesco and Chiara are looking at a new piece of modern art in a gallery.
- FrancescoGuarda quel colore, è davvero sorprendente.Look at that color, it is truly striking.
- ChiaraHai ragione, Francesco, è un'opera intensa.You are right, Francesco, it is an intense work.
- FrancescoMi lascia senza parole.It leaves me speechless.
- ChiaraSì, è un effetto molto forte.Yes, it is a very strong effect.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sorprendente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
