Somebody’s jaw dropped/fell/sagged

usgb
phrase

Expression used when someone is greatly surprised or shocked.

When she told him about the unexpected pregnancy, his jaw dropped.
Visual representation of "somebody’s jaw dropped/fell/sagged" - Expression used when someone is greatly surprised or shocked

Often appears as...

  • his jaw dropped
  • her jaw dropped

Usage tips

Idiomatic, Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "somebody’s jaw dropped/fell/sagged"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Visual Imagery

Imagine the physical action to grasp the shock or surprise element.

Illustration for Visual Imagery
At the magician's trick, her jaw dropped in amazement.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Exaggeration

It's often used to intensify a reaction, but the jaw doesn't literally drop.

Illustration for Exaggeration
When the winner was announced, his jaw dropped to the floor.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Intensity

Use it to describe an emotional response, not a mild or indifferent reaction.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
Seeing the proposal, her jaw dropped in astonishment.
Visual representation of the word "Somebody’s jaw dropped/fell/sagged"

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