surprise

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Idioms (10)

what on earth
CEFR B1

an emphatic way of asking 'what', expressing surprise or confusion

Informal
hang on a minute
CEFR A2

used to ask someone to wait, or to express surprise or objection

Informal
out of the blue
CEFR B2

suddenly and unexpectedly

Informal
ring a bell
CEFR B1

to sound familiar or remind you of something

Informal
how on earth
CEFR B1

an emphatic way of asking 'how', expressing surprise or disbelief

Informal
spring to mind
CEFR B2

to come into your thoughts suddenly and easily

Neutral
jump up and down
CEFR B2

to react with strong excitement or anger about something

Informal
speak of the devil
CEFR B2

Said when a person you were just talking about suddenly appears.

Informal
a dark horse
CEFR C1

A person who surprises everyone by showing unexpected talent or success.

Neutral
let the cat among the pigeons
CEFR C1

To say or do something that causes sudden trouble or excitement.

Informal