Choose the option that is closest in meaning to the underlined word.
They were all flabbergasted when the most introvert member of the group stood up and sang a beautiful song, revealing an unexpected talent they never knew he possessed.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → dumbfounded
Flabbergasted means extremely surprised, shocked into silence. The group was amazed to discover the quietest member's hidden talent. Its synonym is dumbfounded.
Example: We were flabbergasted when the shy boy topped the debate.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) in belief | to be in belief would mean believing or trusting something, which is the opposite of being amazed (the word that fits surprise is "in disbelief") | They stared in disbelief at the result. |
| (2) embarrased | the word meant is embarrassed, which means feeling awkward or ashamed (the group was amazed, not ashamed) | He felt embarrassed when he forgot his lines. |
| (3) dumbfounded (answer) | so astonished that one cannot speak (both words describe great surprise) | She was dumbfounded by the sudden news. |
| (4) entertained | amused or enjoying oneself (the song may have entertained them, but the word does not carry the shock of discovering an unexpected talent) | The magician entertained the children for an hour. |
| Synonyms of flabbergasted: dumbfounded, astonished, amazed, stunned Antonyms of flabbergasted: unsurprised, unmoved, indifferent, unimpressed |