Shock horror

usgb
phrase

A reaction of shock or horror.

He opened the envelope and, shock horror, he had won the lottery.
Visual representation of "shock horror" - A reaction of shock or horror

Often appears as...

  • shock horror revelation
  • shock horror reaction

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "shock horror"
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Literal Meaning

Used when something is genuinely surprising or appalling.

Illustration for Literal Meaning
I saw the haunted house and, shock horror, it really had a ghost!
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Dramatic Effect

Often used to emphasize the impact of a revelation or incident.

Illustration for Dramatic Effect
She walked in and, shock horror, the whole room was decorated for her birthday.
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Emotional Intensity

Can communicate a strong emotional response, usually negative.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
He read the note and, shock horror, his face went pale.
Visual representation of the word "Shock horror"

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