Bestürzung

consternation, dismay, alarm

noun beh-SHTUERT-soong Rare

Usage Note

Bestürzung describes a sudden, overwhelming consternation at unexpected bad news. In Bestürzung geraten (to fall into consternation). It is softer than Entsetzen (horror) but stronger than mere Überraschung (surprise).

Examples

"Die Nachricht vom Unglück löste allgemeine Bestürzung aus."

Natural Translation

The news of the accident caused widespread consternation.

Literal Translation

The news of-the accident triggered general consternation.

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