Meaning and Usage
"受惊" (shòujīng) means to be startled or frightened by something unexpected. It often describes a sudden emotional reaction to a surprising or alarming stimulus.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used to describe animals or people reacting to sudden noises, movements, or events that cause fear or surprise.
Collocations and Patterns
- 受惊地 + verb: describes the manner of action after being startled (e.g., 受惊地跳起来 - jumped up in fright).
- 被 + cause + 受惊: passive structure indicating the subject was frightened by something (e.g., 被大声吓到受惊).
Usage Notes
"受惊" emphasizes the emotional state of being startled rather than physical harm. It is often used in everyday conversation to describe reactions to sudden events. Avoid confusing it with "害怕" which means to be afraid in a more general or lasting sense.