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A2 adjective #3,500 most common 21 min read

étonné

Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips étonné in 30 Seconds

Explanation étonné in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'étonné' is a great word to start expressing basic emotions beyond 'happy' or 'sad.' At this stage, you should focus on the most simple structure: 'Je suis étonné' (I am surprised). It is important to remember that as an adjective, it needs to match the person speaking. If you are a woman, you add an 'e': 'Je suis étonnée.' You can use it to react to simple things, like a gift or a friend arriving at your house. Even though your vocabulary is still growing, using 'étonné' makes your French sound more natural and less like a textbook. You don't need to worry about complex grammar rules yet; just focus on saying how you feel in the moment. For example, if someone tells you they speak five languages, you can simply say, 'Oh ! Je suis étonné !' This shows you are engaged in the conversation. You might also hear it in very simple questions like 'Tu es étonné ?' (Are you surprised?). It's a foundational word for emotional connection. At A1, the goal is communication, and 'étonné' is a perfect tool for that. It helps you move away from just stating facts to sharing your internal reactions to the world around you. Practice saying it out loud to get the pronunciation right—remember the 'é' at the beginning and the end are both pronounced like 'ay' in 'play.' Don't worry about the 's' in the plural yet, as it's silent anyway. Just focus on the core sound and the basic meaning.

At the A2 level, you are expected to use 'étonné' in slightly more complete sentences. This means adding the 'why' to your surprise. You will start using the preposition 'de' to link the feeling to the cause: 'Je suis étonné de ton message' (I am surprised by your message). You should also be comfortable with the gender and number agreement in writing. For instance, if you are talking about your parents, you would write 'Mes parents sont étonnés.' This level is also where you start to distinguish between 'étonné' (the feeling) and 'étonnant' (the thing). You might say, 'C'est étonnant !' (That's surprising!) when you hear a piece of news. A2 learners should also be able to use adverbs to modify the word, like 'très étonné' or 'un peu étonné.' This allows you to be more precise about the level of your surprise. You might encounter 'étonné' in short stories or simple news articles at this level. It is a key word for describing reactions in the past tense as well: 'J'ai été étonné' (I was surprised). Mastering 'étonné' at A2 means you can participate in basic social exchanges where people share their reactions to daily events. It’s a step up from A1 because you’re not just labeling an emotion; you’re starting to explain the context behind it. You’re building the bridges between your feelings and the events that cause them, which is a vital part of becoming a functional French speaker.

At the B1 level, you move into the more complex grammatical structures associated with 'étonné.' The most important development here is the use of the subjunctive mood. When you say 'Je suis étonné que...', the verb that follows must be in the subjunctive: 'Je suis étonné qu'il soit déjà là' (I am surprised that he is already here). This is a major milestone in French learning. You will also start to use 'étonné' to express more abstract surprises, such as being surprised by a political decision or a social trend. At B1, you should also be familiar with a wider range of synonyms and know when to use 'étonné' versus 'surpris' or 'stupéfait.' You might use it in more formal writing, like an email to a colleague: 'Nous sommes étonnés de ne pas avoir reçu votre réponse.' This shows a level of professional politeness while still expressing a clear reaction. You will also start to see 'étonné' used in more complex literary tenses, though you don't necessarily need to use them yourself yet. The B1 learner uses 'étonné' as a tool for nuanced discussion, allowing them to debate and share opinions more effectively. You’re no longer just reacting to what’s in front of you; you’re reacting to ideas, expectations, and the behavior of others. This level of 'étonné' usage reflects a deeper understanding of French culture and the way French speakers express disbelief or wonder in various social strata.

By the B2 level, your use of 'étonné' should be fluid and grammatically perfect. You use the subjunctive naturally after 'que,' and you can switch between 'étonné de,' 'étonné par,' and 'étonné que' without hesitation. You also understand the subtle nuances between 'étonné' and its more intense synonyms like 'sidéré' or 'interloqué.' At this level, you might use 'étonné' ironically or to express skepticism. For example, 'Je suis étonné que tu aies encore oublié tes clés' (I'm 'surprised' you forgot your keys again) might be said with a roll of the eyes. You are also able to use 'étonné' in complex sentence structures, such as using it as an introductory adjective: 'Étonné par la tournure des événements, le ministre a décidé de démissionner.' This level of usage is common in journalism and higher-level literature. You should also be aware of the word's etymology and how it relates to other words in the 'tonnerre' (thunder) family, which helps in understanding related terms like 'étonnement' or 'tonnant.' B2 learners can engage in deep conversations about their reactions to complex global issues, using 'étonné' to signal where their expectations were challenged by reality. It becomes a word not just of emotion, but of critical thinking. You are using the language to analyze the world, and 'étonné' is the marker of where your analysis encountered something unexpected.

At the C1 level, 'étonné' is used with a high degree of precision and stylistic awareness. You can use it to convey subtle shades of meaning, often pairing it with sophisticated adverbs like 'singulièrement étonné' or 'fort étonné.' You are comfortable using it in academic or professional contexts where you might be discussing data that 'étonne les chercheurs.' At this stage, you also recognize 'étonné' in classical literature, where it might have slightly different connotations or be used in archaic structures. You can appreciate the rhythm it adds to a sentence and how an author might use it to create a specific atmosphere. C1 speakers also use 'étonné' to facilitate complex social maneuvers—expressing surprise can be a way to politely disagree or to prompt someone to explain themselves further without being confrontational. You understand the 'social logic' of surprise in French culture. Furthermore, you can discuss the concept of 'étonnement' (astonishment) as a philosophical or artistic state, moving far beyond the simple adjective. Your mastery of 'étonné' at C1 means it has become a versatile instrument in your linguistic orchestra, capable of playing everything from a simple note of surprise to a complex chord of skeptical inquiry or profound wonder. You are using the word to navigate the finest nuances of human interaction and intellectual discourse.

At the C2 level, 'étonné' is integrated into a complete mastery of the French language. You use it with the same ease and nuance as a highly educated native speaker. This includes using it in rare or highly formal structures, and perfectly timing its use for maximum rhetorical effect. You might use it in a speech to express a collective sense of wonder or shock, or in a legal or philosophical treatise to describe a deviation from the expected norm. At C2, you have a deep appreciation for the word's history, from its Latin roots to its evolution through the centuries of French literature. You can analyze why a writer like Proust or Flaubert might choose 'étonné' over 'surpris' in a specific sentence, and you can mimic that level of precision in your own writing. You also understand the cultural weight of 'étonnement' in French philosophy—for instance, the idea that philosophy begins with wonder (étonnement). This level of mastery means the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a concept that you can manipulate and explore in all its depth. Whether you are writing a dissertation, negotiating a high-stakes contract, or engaging in a spirited debate about French cinema, 'étonné' is a word you use with total confidence, precision, and stylistic flair. It is a part of your linguistic DNA, used to express the most subtle shifts in thought and feeling with effortless grace.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

étonné in 30 Seconds

The word 'étonné' means 'surprised' or 'astonished' in French. It is used to express a reaction to something unexpected.
As an adjective, it must agree with the subject: étonné (m), étonnée (f), étonnés (m.pl), étonnées (f.pl).
Common structures include 'étonné de' followed by a noun or verb, and 'étonné que' followed by the subjunctive.
It is a versatile word suitable for both casual and formal situations, bridging the gap between simple reactions and deep wonder.

The French adjective étonné is a fundamental term for expressing the state of being surprised, astonished, or taken aback. While it is often translated simply as 'surprised,' its roots and usage in French carry a specific weight that distinguishes it from other synonyms. To be étonné is to experience a mental or emotional jolt when something unexpected occurs, whether that event is positive, negative, or neutral. It describes the internal state of the person experiencing the surprise, rather than the quality of the event itself. For English speakers, the closest conceptual match is often 'astonished' or 'amazed,' though in daily French, it is used as frequently as the English 'surprised.'

Etymological Power: The word comes from the Latin 'extonare,' which literally means 'to be struck by thunder.' This provides a vivid mental image of the word's intensity; being 'étonné' is like being hit by a sudden, loud crack of thunder that leaves you momentarily stunned.

In contemporary French, you will encounter this word in almost every social context. At the A2 level, learners use it to describe their reactions to news, gifts, or unexpected visitors. As you progress, you will see it used to describe intellectual surprise—being surprised by a theory, a statistic, or a change in someone's behavior. It is a versatile word because it can be modified by adverbs to show degree, such as 'très étonné' (very surprised) or 'un peu étonné' (a bit surprised). Unlike 'surpris,' which can sometimes imply being caught off guard physically, 'étonné' almost always implies a cognitive reaction—your brain is trying to process something it didn't expect.

Je suis vraiment étonné de te voir ici si tôt ce matin.

When using this word, remember that it is an adjective, which means it must agree in gender and number with the person who is surprised. A man says 'je suis étonné,' while a woman says 'je suis étonnée.' If a group of women is surprised, they are 'étonnées.' This grammatical requirement is a key part of mastering the word. Furthermore, 'étonné' is frequently followed by the preposition 'de' when introducing the cause of the surprise. For example, 'étonné de la réponse' (surprised by the answer). If the cause is a verb, we use 'étonné de' + infinitive, such as 'étonné de voir' (surprised to see).

In professional settings, 'étonné' is used to express professional disbelief or unexpected results. A manager might say they are 'étonnés par les résultats du trimestre.' In this context, it remains polite but clear. In more casual settings, it can be used to show genuine warmth or shock. The word is ubiquitous in French literature as well, often used by authors to describe a character's internal monologue when they encounter a plot twist. It is one of those 'bridge' words that connects simple daily communication to higher-level expressive French. By learning 'étonné,' you are moving beyond basic 'yes/no' reactions and starting to describe your internal emotional landscape in a way that sounds natural to native speakers.

Register and Nuance: While 'étonné' is neutral-to-formal, it is perfectly acceptable in slang-heavy conversations. However, in very informal French, people might prefer 'choqué' (shocked) or 'scotché' (glued/stunned), but 'étonné' remains the most reliable and versatile choice for any situation.

Elle était étonnée que personne ne soit venu à la fête.

Finally, consider the emotional range of 'étonné.' It can cover the mild surprise of finding a five-euro note in your pocket to the profound astonishment of a scientific discovery. It is the 'workhorse' of surprise in French. If you aren't sure which word for 'surprised' to use, 'étonné' is almost always a safe and correct bet. It lacks the potential negative connotation of 'surpris' (which can sometimes mean 'caught doing something wrong') and focuses purely on the feeling of wonder or disbelief. It is an essential component of the A2 vocabulary toolkit, providing a necessary layer of emotional expression that allows for more engaging and human conversations.

Social Contexts: Use 'étonné' when someone tells you a secret, when you see a beautiful sunset you didn't expect, or when a friend behaves in a way that is out of character. It signals that you are paying attention and that the information has made an impact on you.

Using étonné correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure, specifically how it links to the cause of the surprise. The most common structure is être étonné de + [noun/verb]. This is the standard way to say you are surprised by something or surprised to do something. For example, 'Je suis étonné de son courage' (I am surprised by his courage) or 'Nous sommes étonnés de vous voir' (We are surprised to see you). Notice that 'de' is the bridge here. Without this bridge, the sentence falls apart. Another common structure is être étonné par + [noun], which is very similar to 'de' but often emphasizes the agent or the force of the surprise. 'Je suis étonné par cette nouvelle' (I am surprised by this news) is a perfectly natural sentence.

The Subjunctive Connection: When 'étonné' is followed by a full clause starting with 'que', you MUST use the subjunctive mood. This is a common hurdle for intermediate learners. 'Je suis étonné qu'il soit là' (I am surprised that he is here). You cannot use the indicative 'est' here. The feeling of surprise triggers the subjunctive because it expresses a subjective reaction to a fact.

Agreement is another critical aspect. Because 'étonné' is an adjective, it changes form based on who is being described. This is often forgotten in spoken French because 'étonné' and 'étonnée' sound exactly the same, but in writing, the distinction is vital. If you are writing a letter as a woman, you must write 'Je suis étonnée.' If you are writing about a group of people, you must use the plural forms: 'étonnés' for a masculine or mixed group, and 'étonnées' for a group of only females. This agreement is what makes French adjectives so precise and, for learners, sometimes a bit tricky. Practice writing these variations to build muscle memory.

Les professeurs sont étonnés des progrès rapides des étudiants cette année.

You can also use 'étonné' in the negative to express that something was expected. 'Je ne suis pas étonné' (I am not surprised) is a very common phrase used when someone's behavior confirms what you already thought about them. It often carries a slightly cynical or 'I told you so' tone. For instance, if a known latecomer arrives late again, you might say, 'Je ne suis pas étonné qu'il soit en retard.' This uses the same subjunctive rule as the positive form. It is a powerful way to express your expectations of the world and the people around you. Mastering the negative form is just as important as the positive one.

In terms of sentence placement, 'étonné' usually follows the verb 'être' or other linking verbs like 'sembler' (to seem) or 'paraître' (to appear). 'Il semble étonné' (He seems surprised). It can also be used as an appositive adjective at the beginning of a sentence to describe a state: 'Étonné par le bruit, l'enfant s'est réveillé' (Surprised by the noise, the child woke up). This usage is slightly more literary but very effective for adding descriptive flair to your writing. It allows you to set the emotional tone before the action of the sentence even begins, which is a hallmark of sophisticated storytelling.

Common Adverb Pairings: 'Étonné' pairs beautifully with adverbs like 'agréablement' (pleasantly), 'désagréablement' (unpleasantly), 'profondément' (deeply), and 'sincèrement' (sincerely). These combinations allow you to specify the 'flavor' of your surprise.

Elle fut étonnée de découvrir que son grand-père était un célèbre espion.

One final tip for sentence construction: don't confuse 'étonné' (the feeling) with 'étonnant' (the thing causing the feeling). This is the classic 'bored' vs 'boring' mistake in English. 'Je suis étonné' means 'I am surprised.' 'C'est étonnant' means 'It is surprising.' If you say 'Je suis étonnant,' you are telling people that you are a surprising person, which might be true but is probably not what you meant to say! Keeping these two straight will significantly improve your fluency and prevent confusing interactions with native speakers. Always focus on whether you are describing the person (étonné) or the thing (étonnant).

Sentence Structure Summary: 1. [Subject] + être + étonné(e)(s) + de + [Noun/Infinitive]. 2. [Subject] + être + étonné(e)(s) + que + [Subjunctive Clause]. 3. [Subject] + être + étonné(e)(s) + par + [Noun].

The word étonné is a staple of French life, appearing in everything from high-brow literature to casual dinner table conversations. If you are in France, you will hear it used by people of all ages. In a bakery, a customer might be étonné to find that their favorite croissant is sold out. In a corporate meeting, a CEO might express being étonné by the success of a new marketing campaign. It is a word that spans all social classes because the experience of surprise is universal. Unlike some words that feel too formal for the street or too casual for the office, 'étonné' sits perfectly in the middle, making it an extremely useful 'safe' word for learners.

In the News and Media: Journalists frequently use 'étonné' to describe the public's reaction to political scandals or scientific breakthroughs. You might see headlines like 'Les experts sont étonnés par la baisse du chômage' (Experts are surprised by the drop in unemployment). It provides a more human element to the reporting.

In French cinema and television, 'étonné' is a key part of character dialogue. It is used to build tension or reveal a character's internal state. When a character finds out a secret, their facial expression usually matches the word 'étonné.' In comedies, the 'étonné' reaction is often exaggerated for effect. You will also hear it in dubbed versions of English movies; where an American character might say 'I'm shocked' or 'I'm amazed,' the French translation will frequently settle on 'Je suis étonné' to capture that specific blend of mental processing and emotional response. Listening for this word in movies is a great way to understand the physical gestures that often accompany it, like raised eyebrows or a slight tilt of the head.

Le présentateur télé a dit qu'il était étonné de la réaction du public pendant le débat.

Literature is another place where 'étonné' shines. From the classic novels of Balzac and Flaubert to modern bestsellers, authors use this word to describe the 'moment of realization.' In Camus' 'L'Étranger,' the protagonist often observes the world with a sense of detachment, but when he does feel something, the word 'étonné' or its relatives often appear to describe his interaction with a world he doesn't quite understand. In children's books, characters are often 'tout étonnés' (completely surprised) by magic or strange occurrences. This wide range of literary usage means that once you learn 'étonné,' you will start seeing it on almost every page of French text you read, reinforcing its importance in the language.

In social media and texting (SMS), 'étonné' is often used to react to photos or status updates. While emojis like 😲 or 😮 do a lot of the work, writing 'Je suis trop étonné !' (I'm so surprised!) adds a level of personal engagement that an emoji cannot. It shows that you are articulating your feelings. In these informal settings, you might also see the adverb 'vachement' (cow-ly, meaning 'really') paired with it: 'Je suis vachement étonné.' While 'étonné' itself isn't slang, it is the perfect base for these types of informal modifiers. It is the linguistic equivalent of a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Daily Life Examples: - Hearing a friend speak a language you didn't know they knew. - Seeing a shop closed on a day it's usually open. - Receiving a compliment from a very strict teacher.

J'ai été étonné par la gentillesse des gens dans ce petit village.

Finally, you will hear 'étonné' in academic or intellectual discussions. When a researcher finds data that contradicts their hypothesis, they will describe themselves as 'étonnés.' In this context, it isn't just an emotion; it's a professional observation of a discrepancy. This 'intellectual surprise' is a key part of the word's identity. It implies that the person has a set of expectations and that those expectations have been challenged. Whether you are discussing the latest gossip or the latest scientific paper, 'étonné' is the word that signals your brain has encountered something new and noteworthy. It is a bridge between your internal world and the external reality.

The 'Why' Factor: Whenever you hear 'étonné,' the speaker is almost always about to explain *why*. It is a word that naturally invites further conversation and explanation, making it a great tool for keeping a dialogue going.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with étonné is forgetting that it is an adjective and not a verb. In English, we say 'I am surprised,' where 'surprised' acts as an adjective. In French, it's the same, but the agreement rules are much stricter. A common error is writing 'Elle est étonné' instead of 'Elle est étonnée.' This missing 'e' might seem minor, but it is a glaring error to a native speaker. Similarly, plurals must be marked with an 's.' If you are talking about a group of people, you must say 'Ils sont étonnés.' Always double-check your subject before you write the word to ensure the gender and number match perfectly. This is the 'bread and butter' of French grammar, and 'étonné' is a perfect place to practice it.

The 'Étonné' vs. 'Étonnant' Confusion: This is arguably the most common mistake for English speakers. 'Étonné' is how YOU feel (I am surprised). 'Étonnant' is what the thing is (It is surprising). If you say 'Je suis étonnant,' you are telling everyone that you are an amazing or surprising person. While that might be true, it’s usually not what you mean when you’re reacting to a surprise!

Another tricky area is the use of prepositions. Many learners want to say 'étonné avec' or 'étonné sur' because of direct translations from other languages. However, in French, the standard prepositions are 'de' or 'par.' Using 'étonné de' is the most common and safest bet. For example, 'étonné de la situation.' Using 'par' is also correct and often used when the cause is an active force: 'étonné par son discours.' If you use the wrong preposition, a native speaker will still understand you, but your French will sound 'translated' rather than natural. Practice the 'étonné de' structure until it becomes second nature. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in how fluent you sound.

Faux: Je suis étonné par que tu es là.
Vrai: Je suis étonné que tu sois là.

The subjunctive mood is the 'final boss' of using 'étonné' correctly. When you use the phrase 'étonné que,' the following verb MUST be in the subjunctive. This is because 'étonné que' expresses an emotion or a reaction, which triggers the subjunctive in French. For example, 'Je suis étonné qu'il fasse froid' (I am surprised that it is cold). Many learners default to the indicative 'il fait,' which is grammatically incorrect in this context. While this is a more advanced rule, starting to apply it early will set you apart from other learners. If the subjunctive feels too hard, you can often avoid it by using 'de' + infinitive if the subject is the same: 'Je suis étonné d'avoir froid' (I am surprised to be cold).

Finally, be careful with the intensity of the word. 'Étonné' is quite versatile, but if you are truly, world-shakingly shocked, 'étonné' might sound too mild. In those cases, words like 'sidéré' or 'stupéfait' are better. Conversely, if you are only slightly surprised, 'étonné' is fine, but you might want to add 'un peu' to soften it. Using 'étonné' for every single tiny surprise can make your French sound a bit repetitive. However, at the A2 level, it is better to use 'étonné' correctly than to try more complex words and get the grammar wrong. Focus on the agreement and the prepositions first, and the nuance will come with time and exposure to the language.

Mistake Checklist: 1. Did I agree the adjective with the subject? (étonné/ée/és/ées) 2. Did I use 'de' or 'par'? 3. If I used 'que', did I use the subjunctive? 4. Did I mean 'surprised' (étonné) or 'surprising' (étonnant)?

Il ne faut pas dire 'Je suis étonné de que...' mais simplement 'Je suis étonné que...'.

In summary, 'étonné' is a powerful word, but it requires attention to detail. The most successful learners are those who treat it like a building block. They learn the core word, then they learn how to attach it to other words using 'de,' 'par,' or 'que.' They remember to change its ending based on who they are talking about. And they never, ever confuse it with 'étonnant.' If you can avoid these five common pitfalls—agreement, étonné/étonnant confusion, wrong prepositions, missing subjunctive, and incorrect intensity—you will be using 'étonné' like a pro in no time. Keep practicing these structures in your writing and speaking, and they will soon become second nature.

Pronunciation Pitfall: Don't pronounce the final 's' in 'étonnés' or 'étonnées' unless there is a liaison. The 'é', 'ée', 'és', and 'ées' all sound identical in standard speech: /e.tɔ.ne/.

While étonné is a fantastic all-purpose word, French is rich with synonyms that allow for more precise emotional expression. Understanding the differences between these alternatives will help you move from a basic 'A2' level to a more nuanced 'B1' or 'B2' level. The most common alternative is surpris. In many cases, 'surpris' and 'étonné' are interchangeable. However, 'surpris' often carries a connotation of being caught off guard or being the victim of a surprise. If someone jumps out from behind a door, you are 'surpris.' If someone tells you a fact that contradicts what you thought you knew, you are 'étonné.' 'Surpris' is more about the event; 'étonné' is more about the mental state.

The Intensity Scale: Surpris: Neutral surprise, often sudden.
Étonné: Standard astonishment, mental processing.
Stupéfait: Very surprised, almost unable to speak.
Sidéré: Completely shocked, 'blown away.'
Ébahi: Wide-eyed with wonder or amazement.

If you want to express a higher degree of surprise, stupéfait is your best friend. It implies a level of shock that leaves you momentarily speechless. It's the kind of surprise you feel when you win the lottery or see something truly unbelievable. Even stronger is sidéré. This word suggests being 'struck' by something so hard that you are mentally paralyzed. It's often used for negative news or incredible scandals. On the more positive side, ébahi suggests a sense of wonder and awe. You might be 'ébahi' by a beautiful work of art or a breathtaking landscape. These words allow you to color your speech and show exactly how much impact the surprise had on you.

Je n'étais pas seulement étonné, j'étais carrément sidéré par son impolitesse.

Another interesting alternative is interloqué. This word is specifically used when someone says or does something so unexpected that you don't know how to respond. It’s that 'wait, what?' moment in a conversation. It's a bit more formal but very precise. Then there is médusé, which comes from the myth of Medusa; it describes being 'turned to stone' with surprise. This is quite literary and very dramatic. For something more casual, you might hear scotché (literally 'taped' or 'glued'), which is the slang equivalent of 'blown away.' 'J'étais scotché par son talent!' (I was blown away by his talent!). These informal options are great for talking with friends.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the antonyms. If you aren't surprised, you are indifférent (indifferent) or blasé (unimpressed/bored). Being 'blasé' implies that you have seen it all before and nothing can surprise you anymore. It's a very 'Parisian' attitude! You could also use préparé (prepared) or calme (calm) to show that the event didn't ruffle your feathers. 'Je m'y attendais' (I was expecting it) is the most common way to say you weren't surprised. Understanding these opposites helps define the boundaries of 'étonné.' It is the middle ground between being 'blasé' and being 'sidéré.'

Comparison: Étonné vs. Surpris

Étonné:: Focuses on the mental shock/disbelief. (Intellectual)
Surpris:: Focuses on the unexpectedness of the event. (Event-based)

Il est resté interloqué quand elle a annoncé qu'elle partait en Australie demain.

In summary, while 'étonné' is your primary tool, don't be afraid to experiment with its cousins. Use 'surpris' for quick, physical surprises. Use 'stupéfait' for big, life-changing news. Use 'ébahi' for beauty. Use 'sidéré' for shock. And if you want to sound like a local, use 'scotché' in a bar or 'interloqué' in a serious discussion. By expanding your vocabulary in this way, you make your French more expressive, more precise, and ultimately more human. 'Étonné' is the foundation, but these alternatives are the decorations that make your linguistic house a home. Keep listening for these variations in movies and books to see how native speakers choose between them.

A Final Note on Register: Remember that 'médusé' and 'interloqué' are quite formal. If you use them with friends while eating pizza, it might sound a bit funny—like you're a character in a 19th-century novel! Stick to 'étonné' or 'scotché' for casual settings.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

Because 'étonné' shares a root with 'tonnerre' (thunder), it is linguistically related to the English word 'astonish' and the word 'tornado'. All these words trace back to the idea of a powerful, thundering force that leaves one shaken.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /e.tɔ.ne/

US /e.tɔ.ne/

French words are generally evenly stressed, with a very slight emphasis on the final syllable 'né'.

Rhymes With

donné né chanté parlé marché été café idée

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 's' in 'étonnés'.
Making the 'o' sound like the 'o' in 'go' (it should be more open).
Stressing the first syllable like in English 'astonished'.
Pronouncing the 'e' in 'étonnée' as a separate syllable (it is silent).
Forgetting the liaison in 'Ils sont étonnés' (the 't' should link to the 'é').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word itself is easy to recognize, but its meaning in classical literature can be slightly more intense.

Writing 4/5

Agreement and the subjunctive after 'que' make it challenging for intermediate learners.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is simple, but remembering to use the correct preposition (de/par) in real-time takes practice.

Listening 2/5

Very common in speech, though the liaison in 'ils sont étonnés' can sometimes trip up beginners.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

être surprise très de que

Learn Next

stupéfait sidéré étonnement s'étonner étonnant

Advanced

médusé interloqué abasourdi ébahi subjontif

Grammar to Know

Adjective Agreement

Marie est étonnée (f), mais Jean est étonné (m).

Subjunctive after emotions

Je suis étonné que tu *viennes* (subjunctive).

Preposition 'de' before infinitives

Il est étonné *de* voir ce résultat.

Liaison with plural 's'

Ils sont_étonnés (pronounce the 't' in 'sont').

Negative 'ne... pas'

Je *ne* suis *pas* étonné par ton choix.

Examples by Level

Je suis étonné.

I am surprised.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure. 'Étonné' is the masculine form.

Tu es étonnée ?

Are you surprised?

The extra 'e' in 'étonnée' shows it refers to a female person.

Il est très étonné par le cadeau.

He is very surprised by the gift.

The adverb 'très' modifies the intensity of the adjective.

Nous sommes étonnés.

We are surprised.

The 's' at the end makes it plural for a group.

Elle est étonnée de te voir.

She is surprised to see you.

Uses the structure 'étonné de' + infinitive verb.

Je ne suis pas étonné.

I am not surprised.

Standard negative construction with 'ne... pas'.

Ils sont étonnés de la nouvelle.

They are surprised by the news.

Plural agreement with the masculine/mixed subject 'Ils'.

Oh, je suis tout étonné !

Oh, I am completely surprised!

'Tout' is used here as an adverb meaning 'completely' or 'quite'.

Elle est étonnée de son succès.

She is surprised by her success.

Agreement with 'Elle' and use of 'de' before the noun.

Nous avons été étonnés par le film.

We were surprised by the movie.

Passé composé of 'être' + adjective agreement.

Je suis étonné de voir qu'il pleut.

I am surprised to see that it is raining.

Compound sentence with 'étonné de' + infinitive + 'que'.

Ils sont étonnés d'apprendre la vérité.

They are surprised to learn the truth.

The 'de' becomes 'd'' before a word starting with a vowel.

Marie est étonnée par la taille de la maison.

Marie is surprised by the size of the house.

Proper noun subject with feminine agreement.

Vous semblez étonnés, mes amis.

You seem surprised, my friends.

Using the linking verb 'sembler' instead of 'être'.

Je suis étonné de ne pas te voir à la fête.

I am surprised not to see you at the party.

Negative infinitive 'ne pas voir' after 'étonné de'.

Elle est restée étonnée pendant dix minutes.

She remained surprised for ten minutes.

Using 'rester' to show the duration of the state.

Je suis étonné qu'il soit en retard.

I am surprised that he is late.

Triggers the subjunctive 'soit' after 'étonné que'.

Elle est étonnée que tu aies fini si vite.

She is surprised that you finished so quickly.

Subjunctive past 'aies fini' after 'étonnée que'.

Nous sommes étonnés que vous ne sachiez pas cela.

We are surprised that you don't know that.

Subjunctive 'sachiez' from 'savoir' after 'étonnés que'.

Il est étonné de la manière dont elle a réagi.

He is surprised by the way she reacted.

Relative clause 'dont...' following the noun 'manière'.

Je suis étonné que ce restaurant soit fermé aujourd'hui.

I am surprised that this restaurant is closed today.

Subjunctive 'soit' after 'étonné que'.

Ils sont étonnés que le prix ait tellement augmenté.

They are surprised that the price has increased so much.

Subjunctive past 'ait augmenté' after 'étonnés que'.

Elle est étonnée de ne pas avoir été invitée.

She is surprised not to have been invited.

Negative past infinitive 'ne pas avoir été' after 'étonnée de'.

Je suis étonné que tu me dises ça maintenant.

I am surprised that you are telling me that now.

Subjunctive 'dises' from 'dire' after 'étonné que'.

Il est étonné qu'une telle erreur ait pu se produire.

He is surprised that such an error could have occurred.

Complex subjunctive construction 'ait pu se produire'.

Elle fut étonnée de constater le changement de climat.

She was surprised to notice the change in climate.

Passé simple 'fut' used in a literary/formal context.

Nous sommes étonnés par la rapidité de la décision.

We are surprised by the speed of the decision.

Using 'par' to emphasize the cause as an external force.

Je suis étonné que vous n'ayez pas pris de mesures.

I am surprised that you haven't taken any measures.

Subjunctive past 'n'ayez pas pris' for a past action.

Ils sont étonnés que la situation se soit dégradée.

They are surprised that the situation has worsened.

Reflexive verb in the subjunctive past 'se soit dégradée'.

Elle est étonnée de voir à quel point il a changé.

She is surprised to see how much he has changed.

Indirect question 'à quel point...' following 'étonnée de voir'.

Je suis étonné que l'on puisse encore croire à cela.

I am surprised that people can still believe in that.

Using the indefinite pronoun 'on' with the subjunctive 'puisse'.

Les critiques sont étonnés par l'originalité de l'œuvre.

The critics are surprised by the originality of the work.

Professional context with plural agreement.

On ne peut qu'être étonné devant une telle audace.

One can only be surprised in the face of such audacity.

The 'ne... que' construction expresses 'only'.

Elle se montra fort étonnée de ces révélations.

She appeared very surprised by these revelations.

'Fort' used as a formal adverb meaning 'very' or 'highly'.

Je suis étonné qu'il ne se soit pas manifesté plus tôt.

I am surprised that he didn't come forward sooner.

Reflexive subjunctive past with negative construction.

Il est étonné de la persistance de ces préjugés.

He is surprised by the persistence of these prejudices.

Abstract noun 'persistance' as the object of 'étonné de'.

Nous sommes étonnés que la réforme ait été adoptée.

We are surprised that the reform was adopted.

Passive voice in the subjunctive past 'ait été adoptée'.

Elle restait étonnée par l'étrange silence de la ville.

She remained surprised by the strange silence of the city.

Imparfait 'restait' to describe a continuous state in the past.

Je suis étonné que vous fassiez preuve de tant de patience.

I am surprised that you are showing so much patience.

Idiomatic expression 'faire preuve de' in the subjunctive.

Les historiens sont étonnés par la précision des récits.

Historians are surprised by the precision of the accounts.

Professional/academic context with 'par' for the cause.

Il serait vain de ne pas s'avouer étonné par ce revirement.

It would be futile not to admit to being surprised by this reversal.

Highly formal/literary structure with 'vain' and 's'avouer'.

Elle s'étonna, non sans raison, de la froideur de l'accueil.

She was surprised, not without reason, by the coldness of the welcome.

Using the verb 's'étonner' in the passé simple with a parenthetical phrase.

Je suis étonné que l'on puisse encore nier l'évidence.

I am surprised that one can still deny the obvious.

Philosophical/rhetorical use of 'on' and the subjunctive 'puisse'.

Nous sommes étonnés que cette œuvre n'ait pas fait date.

We are surprised that this work didn't mark an era.

Idiomatic expression 'faire date' in the subjunctive past.

Il est étonné de la subtilité avec laquelle il a été trompé.

He is surprised by the subtlety with which he was deceived.

Complex relative clause 'avec laquelle...'.

Elle fut étonnée que sa proposition fût rejetée d'emblée.

She was surprised that her proposal was rejected outright.

Use of the imperfect subjunctive 'fût' (highly literary/archaic).

Je suis étonné que vous n'ayez point aperçu le danger.

I am surprised that you did not perceive the danger at all.

Formal use of 'point' instead of 'pas'.

L'observateur est étonné par la pérennité de ces structures.

The observer is surprised by the longevity of these structures.

Formal/scientific register using 'pérennité'.

Common Collocations

agréablement étonné

profondément étonné

étonné de voir

étonné d'apprendre

pas le moins du monde étonné

rester étonné

sembler étonné

peu étonné

sincèrement étonné

se dire étonné

Common Phrases

Je suis étonné de vous voir.

— A polite way to express surprise at someone's presence. It is common in social encounters.

Tiens, Paul ! Je suis étonné de vous voir à cette conférence.

Il n'y a pas de quoi être étonné.

— This means there is no reason to be surprised. It is used when something is logical or expected.

Il a échoué à l'examen ? Il n'y a pas de quoi être étonné, il n'a jamais étudié.

J'en suis tout étonné.

— An emphatic way to say you are completely surprised. The 'tout' adds emphasis.

Elle a vraiment dit ça ? J'en suis tout étonné !

Ne sois pas étonné.

— A piece of advice telling someone they should expect something unusual.

Ne sois pas étonné s'il ne répond pas tout de suite, il est très occupé.

Vous seriez étonné.

— Used in the conditional to suggest that something is more surprising than it looks.

Vous seriez étonné de savoir combien de personnes utilisent encore ce vieux logiciel.

À ma grande surprise / À mon grand étonnement.

— While 'étonné' is the adjective, this related phrase is used to introduce a surprising fact.

À mon grand étonnement, il a accepté ma proposition sans discuter.

Il a l'air étonné.

— Used to describe someone's physical appearance of surprise.

Pourquoi a-t-il l'air si étonné ? On lui a pourtant tout expliqué.

Je suis étonné que ça marche.

— A common informal way to express doubt that was proven wrong by success.

Après toutes ces réparations, je suis étonné que la voiture marche encore.

On est toujours étonné de...

— A general statement about how something continues to cause surprise.

On est toujours étonné de la beauté de ce paysage, même après dix ans.

Je ne serais pas étonné que...

— Used to express a suspicion or a likely future event.

Je ne serais pas étonné qu'il pleuve demain.

Often Confused With

étonné vs étonnant

English speakers confuse 'surprised' (étonné) with 'surprising' (étonnant). Remember: -é is for how YOU feel.

étonné vs surpris

Often interchangeable, but 'surpris' is more for sudden events, 'étonné' for mental astonishment.

étonné vs choqué

'Choqué' is much stronger and usually negative, while 'étonné' can be positive or neutral.

Idioms & Expressions

"En rester tout étonné"

— To be left completely speechless or stunned by something. It implies a lasting state of surprise.

Quand j'ai vu le prix, j'en suis resté tout étonné.

neutral

"Tomber des nues"

— To be extremely surprised, as if falling from the clouds. While not using the word 'étonné', it's the idiomatic equivalent.

Quand il a appris son licenciement, il est tombé des nues.

informal

"Les bras m'en tombent"

— Literally 'my arms are falling off.' It means you are so surprised or discouraged that you can't even move.

Quand j'ai vu le désordre dans la cuisine, les bras m'en sont tombés.

informal

"Être cloué sur place"

— To be nailed to the spot with surprise or shock. It describes the physical freezing reaction.

Elle a été clouée sur place par cette annonce soudaine.

neutral

"N'en pas croire ses yeux / ses oreilles"

— To not believe one's eyes or ears. This is a very common way to express extreme 'étonnement'.

Je n'en croyais pas mes oreilles quand il a avoué son crime.

neutral

"Avoir le souffle coupé"

— To have one's breath taken away by surprise or beauty.

J'avais le souffle coupé devant la splendeur du château.

neutral

"Être bouche bée"

— To be open-mouthed with surprise. It describes the classic 'stunned' look.

Il est resté bouche bée face à la réponse de son fils.

neutral

"Rester de marbre"

— To remain like marble (the opposite of 'étonné'). To show no surprise where it was expected.

Malgré la nouvelle choquante, il est resté de marbre.

neutral

"S'en étonner comme de sa première culotte"

— A very old-fashioned way to say you are not surprised at all (not caring about it).

Qu'il soit encore en retard, je m'en étonne comme de ma première culotte.

archaic/humorous

"Faire l'étonné"

— To pretend to be surprised when you actually already knew the truth.

Ne fais pas l'étonné, je sais que tu étais au courant.

informal

Easily Confused

étonné vs étonnant

Both come from the same root and look similar.

'Étonné' is an adjective describing a person's feeling. 'Étonnant' describes the thing that causes the feeling. For example, 'I am surprised' is 'Je suis étonné', but 'It is surprising' is 'C'est étonnant'.

Ce livre est étonnant, j'en suis très étonné.

étonné vs étonnement

One is a noun, the other is an adjective.

'Étonné' is the state of the person. 'Étonnement' is the abstract concept of surprise itself. You *are* étonné, but you *feel* étonnement.

Son étonnement était visible sur son visage étonné.

étonné vs s'étonner

The verb form of the adjective.

'Étonné' is the result. 'S'étonner' is the action of being surprised or wondering about something. You can say 'Je m'étonne de cela' instead of 'Je suis étonné par cela'.

Je m'étonne qu'il ne soit pas encore là.

étonné vs étourdi

Similar beginning ('ét-').

'Étonné' means surprised. 'Étourdi' means dizzy, scatterbrained, or light-headed. They are completely different concepts despite the similar sound.

Il est trop étourdi pour être étonné de ses erreurs.

étonné vs tonnerre

Etymological root.

'Tonnerre' is the noun for thunder. While 'étonné' comes from this root, you cannot use them interchangeably in modern French.

Le tonnerre m'a fait sursauter, j'en suis resté étonné.

Sentence Patterns

Je suis étonné.

Je suis étonné de [Nom].

Je suis étonné de ton courage.

Elle est étonnée de [Infinitif].

Elle est étonnée de gagner.

Je suis étonné que [Sujet] [Subjonctif].

Je suis étonné qu'il pleuve.

Nous sommes étonnés par [Nom].

Nous sommes étonnés par sa force.

Il semble étonné que [Sujet] [Subjonctif].

Il semble étonné que tu sois là.

On ne peut qu'être étonné de [Nom].

On ne peut qu'être étonné de sa bêtise.

Il s'étonna que [Sujet] [Subjonctif Imparfait].

Il s'étonna que sa voix fût si basse.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely frequent in both spoken and written French.

Common Mistakes

Using 'étonné' for 'surprising'. → C'est étonnant.
Learners often say 'C'est étonné' when they mean 'It is surprising'. 'Étonné' is only for the person feeling the surprise. 'Étonnant' is for the thing that causes it.
Forgetting gender agreement in writing. → Elle est étonnée.
Because 'étonné' and 'étonnée' sound the same, many learners forget to add the 'e' in writing when the subject is female. This is a very common grammatical error.
Using the wrong preposition (e.g., étonné avec). → Je suis étonné de/par...
English speakers often translate 'surprised with' or 'surprised at' directly. In French, the correct prepositions are 'de' or 'par'. 'Étonné de' is the most common.
Using the indicative after 'étonné que'. → Je suis étonné qu'il *soit* là.
Many learners use the standard indicative ('est') after 'étonné que'. However, this structure requires the subjunctive ('soit') because it expresses a reaction.
Confusing 'étonné' with 'étourdi'. → Je suis étonné.
Because they both start with 'ét-', some beginners confuse 'surprised' (étonné) with 'scatterbrained/dizzy' (étourdi). They are not related in meaning.

Tips

Gender Agreement

Always remember to add an 'e' if the person who is surprised is female. It's a small detail that native speakers notice immediately in writing. 'Il est étonné' vs 'Elle est étonnée'. This applies to plural forms as well: 'Ils sont étonnés' vs 'Elles sont étonnées'.

Étonné vs Étonnant

This is the most important distinction. 'Étonné' is the feeling (I am surprised). 'Étonnant' is the thing causing it (It is surprising). Never say 'Je suis étonnant' unless you mean 'I am an amazing/surprising person'. Stick to 'Je suis étonné' for your reactions.

Master the Liaison

To sound like a native, practice the liaison in 'Ils sont étonnés'. The 't' at the end of 'sont' should slide into the 'é' of 'étonnés'. It sounds like 'eel-son-tay-toh-nay'. This small adjustment will make your spoken French sound much more fluent and polished.

The Subjunctive Trigger

When you use 'étonné que', you must use the subjunctive mood for the following verb. For example, 'Je suis étonné qu'il *soit* là' (not *est*). This is because emotions and reactions trigger the subjunctive in French. It's a great way to practice this advanced grammar point.

A Safe Bet

If you aren't sure which word for 'surprised' to use, 'étonné' is almost always the best choice. It's neutral, versatile, and works in both formal and informal contexts. It's a 'workhorse' word that every A2 learner should have in their toolkit.

Thunderous Surprise

Remember that 'étonné' comes from the same root as 'tonnerre' (thunder). Think of a surprise as a thunderclap in your brain. This will help you remember the word and also understand why it's a bit more 'mental' than the word 'surpris'.

The 'De' Bridge

When explaining *why* you are surprised, use the preposition 'de'. 'Je suis étonné *de* ta réponse' or 'Je suis étonné *de* voir ça'. It's the most natural way to link the feeling to the cause. Avoid using 'avec' or 'sur', which are common mistakes for English speakers.

Adverbial Polish

Add adverbs to 'étonné' to sound more expressive. 'Agréablement étonné' (pleasantly surprised) is a very common and useful collocation. It shows that you aren't just surprised, but that you like what you've found. It's a great way to add nuance to your speech.

Context Clues

When listening to native speakers, pay attention to whether they say 'étonné' or 'étonnant'. This will tell you instantly whether they are describing their own reaction or the situation itself. It's a key part of following a conversation in French.

Literary Flair

In more formal writing, you can use 'étonné' as an appositive at the start of a sentence: 'Étonné par la nouvelle, il ne sut que dire.' This is a sophisticated way to set the scene and describe a character's state of mind before they act.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the 'ton' in 'étonné'. When you are surprised, it's like a 'ton' of bricks hit you, or a 'ton' of thunder (tonnerre) just went off in your head.

Visual Association

Imagine a person standing under a giant lightning bolt. Instead of being hurt, they just have a huge, wide-eyed look of surprise on their face. The lightning represents the 'tonnerre' root.

Word Web

tonnerre étonnant surprise stupéfait étonnement tonner sidéré ébahi

Challenge

Try to use 'étonné' in three different ways today: once for a positive surprise, once for a negative one, and once using the 'étonné que' + subjunctive structure.

Word Origin

The word 'étonné' comes from the Old French 'estoner', which is derived from the Vulgar Latin 'extonare'. This Latin root is a combination of 'ex-' (out) and 'tonare' (to thunder).

Original meaning: The original meaning was literally 'to strike with thunder' or 'to daze with a loud noise'. It described a physical state of being stunned by a powerful force.

It belongs to the Romance language family, specifically the branch that evolved from Latin into French.

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but using 'étonné' ironically (e.g., 'I'm *surprised* you failed') can be seen as quite biting or sarcastic in French.

English speakers often use 'shocked' or 'amazed' more liberally. 'Étonné' is the perfect middle ground for both, making it a very safe translation for English 'surprised'.

L'Étranger by Albert Camus: The protagonist Meursault often notes being 'étonné' by things others find normal. Le Petit Prince: The prince is often 'étonné' by the behavior of 'les grandes personnes' (grown-ups). French news headlines: Frequently use 'étonné' to describe public reaction to policy changes.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Reacting to news

Je suis étonné d'apprendre cela.
C'est une nouvelle qui m'étonne.
Je ne suis pas étonné par ce que tu dis.
On est toujours étonné par les surprises de la vie.

Meeting someone unexpectedly

Je suis étonné de vous voir ici !
Quelle surprise, je suis tout étonné.
Tu as l'air étonné de me voir.
Je suis étonné que tu sois venu.

In the workplace

Nous sommes étonnés des résultats.
Je suis étonné que le projet soit déjà fini.
Le client s'est dit étonné par la qualité.
Ne soyez pas étonné si le planning change.

Describing a movie or book

J'ai été étonné par la fin du film.
C'est un livre qui laisse le lecteur étonné.
On est étonné par le talent de l'auteur.
La fin m'a laissé tout étonné.

Academic discussion

Les chercheurs sont étonnés par ces données.
Il est étonné de la corrélation entre les deux variables.
On peut être étonné de la persistance de ce phénomène.
L'analyse nous laisse étonnés.

Conversation Starters

"As-tu déjà été vraiment étonné par un cadeau que tu as reçu ?"

"Es-tu étonné par les changements technologiques de ces dernières années ?"

"Qu'est-ce qui t'a le plus étonné lors de ton dernier voyage à l'étranger ?"

"Es-tu étonné que tant de gens utilisent encore les réseaux sociaux ?"

"Te sens-tu souvent étonné par le comportement des gens dans la rue ?"

Journal Prompts

Décris une situation où tu as été extrêmement étonné. Qu'est-ce qui s'est passé et comment as-tu réagi ?

Penses-tu qu'il est bon d'être souvent étonné par la vie, ou préfères-tu que tout soit prévisible ?

Écris sur une nouvelle récente qui t'a étonné. Pourquoi cette information était-elle inattendue ?

Imagine que tu rencontres ton moi du futur. De quoi serais-tu le plus étonné ?

Est-ce que tu es souvent étonné par tes propres progrès en français ? Explique pourquoi.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not necessarily. Both are neutral and very common. However, 'étonné' can sometimes sound slightly more intellectual or focused on the mental state, whereas 'surpris' is often used for physical or sudden shocks. In most everyday situations, you can use either one, but 'étonné' is a very safe and natural choice for learners.

Yes, in standard French, 'étonné que' always triggers the subjunctive. This is because it expresses an emotion or a subjective reaction to a fact. For example, 'Je suis étonné qu'il soit là.' Even if you hear some native speakers use the indicative in very casual speech, it is considered a mistake. Always use the subjunctive to be safe and correct.

They are very similar and often interchangeable. 'Étonné de' is the most common and is generally used with nouns and infinitives. 'Étonné par' is used to emphasize the cause or the agent of the surprise. For example, 'étonné de la nouvelle' is standard, while 'étonné par son discours' puts a bit more focus on the speech itself as the cause.

Yes, 'étonné' is neutral. It can be used for pleasant surprises ('Je suis agréablement étonné'), unpleasant ones ('Je suis désagréablement étonné'), or just neutral astonishment. If you want to convey a very strong negative shock, you might prefer the word 'choqué' (shocked).

The most common way is 'Je ne suis pas étonné' or 'Ça ne m'étonne pas' (That doesn't surprise me). It's a very common phrase to use when someone behaves exactly as you expected. You can also say 'Je m'y attendais' (I was expecting it).

In terms of sound, no. 'Étonné', 'étonnée', 'étonnés', and 'étonnées' are all pronounced exactly the same (/e.tɔ.ne/). The only time the pronunciation changes is if there is a liaison, like in 'Ils sont étonnés' (/eel son tay-toh-nay/), where the 't' of 'sont' is pronounced.

No, 'étonné' describes a feeling, so it can only be used for people or animals (sentient beings). If you want to say a situation or an object is surprising, you must use the adjective 'étonnant'. For example, 'C'est un film étonnant' (It's a surprising movie).

Common adverbs include 'très' (very), 'un peu' (a bit), 'vraiment' (really), 'agréablement' (pleasantly), 'profondément' (deeply), and 'fort' (highly/very). These help you specify the degree and the nature of your surprise.

Yes! They share the same Latin root 'extonare'. In English, 'astonished' sounds a bit more formal or intense than 'surprised', while in French, 'étonné' is the standard, everyday word for surprise. This is a common point of confusion for learners.

You use the verb 'être' in the past tense followed by 'étonné'. For example, 'J'ai été étonné' (I was surprised - passé composé) or 'J'étais étonné' (I was surprised - imparfait). The agreement rules still apply: 'Elle a été étonnée'.