Meaning
To be extremely surprised or shocked, unable to move.
Cultural Background
It is very common in daily life, often used in news reports or casual conversation. Also very common, though sometimes people might use 'quedarse helado' as a synonym. Used frequently in social contexts to express disbelief.
Use it for drama
This phrase is perfect for adding dramatic flair to your stories.
Don't use it for temperature
It's about shock, not being cold!
Meaning
To be extremely surprised or shocked, unable to move.
Use it for drama
This phrase is perfect for adding dramatic flair to your stories.
Don't use it for temperature
It's about shock, not being cold!
Combine with 'al'
Use 'al' + infinitive to explain why you were shocked: 'Me quedé de piedra al ver...'
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Cuando escuché la noticia, me quedé ___ piedra.
The correct preposition for this idiom is 'de'.
Which is correct?
Choose the correct phrase.
The verb 'quedarse' is the standard verb for this idiom.
Match the situation to the feeling.
You hear shocking news.
This is the correct idiom for shock.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Qué pasó cuando viste el accidente? B: ___.
Shock is the appropriate reaction to an accident.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesCuando escuché la noticia, me quedé ___ piedra.
The correct preposition for this idiom is 'de'.
Choose the correct phrase.
The verb 'quedarse' is the standard verb for this idiom.
You hear shocking news.
This is the correct idiom for shock.
A: ¿Qué pasó cuando viste el accidente? B: ___.
Shock is the appropriate reaction to an accident.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it is acceptable in semi-formal emails to express surprise at news.
No, it works for both good and bad news.
They are almost identical in meaning.
Yes, 'Me quedé de piedra' is very common.
It is neutral and fits most contexts.
Yes, 'Nos quedamos de piedra'.
Related Phrases
Quedarse helado
synonymTo be frozen
Quedarse pasmado
synonymTo be stunned
Quedarse boquiabierto
similarTo be open-mouthed
