# fall off one's chair

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/fall-off-ones-chair
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To experience a strong reaction of surprise, shock or disbelief.

## Examples

- I nearly fell off my chair when I heard the news.
- When the boss announced that everyone was getting a massive bonus, I almost fell off my chair in disbelief.
- Upon reading the unexpected letter that revealed his long-lost inheritance, he nearly fell off his chair, struggling to process the sudden change in his fortune.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.