Meaning
Expresses surprise or shock at something scary.
Cultural Background
In Mexico, 'susto' can also refer to a folk illness ('susto' or 'espanto') where the soul is believed to leave the body due to a shock. It is very common to add '¡Ay!' before '¡Qué susto!' to emphasize the physical reaction.
The 'Ay' factor
Adding 'Ay' at the beginning makes you sound much more natural and native.
Meaning
Expresses surprise or shock at something scary.
The 'Ay' factor
Adding 'Ay' at the beginning makes you sound much more natural and native.
Test Yourself
Which phrase is correct when someone jumps out at you?
Someone jumps out from behind a door. You say: ____
'¡Qué susto!' is for sudden shocks.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesSomeone jumps out from behind a door. You say: ____
'¡Qué susto!' is for sudden shocks.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it is strictly for spoken, informal communication.
Related Phrases
¡Qué miedo!
contrastHow scary!
Dar un susto
builds onTo give a scare
Pegar un susto
synonymTo give a big scare
