衝撃を受ける

• Reading: しょうげきをうける
• Romaji: shōgeki wo ukeru
• Kanji breakdown: 衝 (shō) — to collide, strike; 撃 (geki) — to strike, hit; 受 (ju/u) — to receive
• Pronunciation: /ɕoːge̞ki wo̞ ɯke̞ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be shocked; to receive a blow; to be struck with powerful impact. Describes a sudden and profound emotional or physical jolt.

A compound verbal expression using 衝撃 (shōgeki — shock, impact) and 受ける (to receive). Used in both literal contexts (physical impact) and, more commonly at N1 level, in figurative emotional contexts such as receiving devastating news, witnessing something traumatic, or being shaken by an unexpected revelation. The phrase implies a visceral, immediate reaction that leaves a lasting impression.

Examples

1. 恩師の急逝を知らされ、衝撃を受けた。 I was shocked when I learned of my mentor's sudden passing.
2. 彼は告白の言葉に衝撃を受け、しばらく言葉を失った。 He was so shocked by the confession that he was left speechless for a while.
3. その映画の結末に衝撃を受けた観客は少なくなかった。 Quite a few audience members were shocked by the ending of that movie.

Usage Guide

Context: news, personal life, narrative, emotional reaction

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Formed from 衝撃 (a compound of 衝 — to collide, and 撃 — to strike) combined with 受ける (to receive). The expression borrows the physical image of being struck to describe emotional shock.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal