# consternation

/ˌkɑnstɝˈneɪʃən/ (US) · /kɒnstənˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/consternation
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a feeling of worry, shock, or confusion. You feel this when something unexpected and unpleasant happens.

For teachers: a state of anxiety, dismay, or confusion, typically resulting from something unexpected. Often used to describe a collective reaction to a sudden change or event.

## Examples

- The sudden news caused great consternation among the staff.
- To the consternation of the local residents, the council decided to build a highway through the park.
- The sudden collapse of the negotiations was met with consternation by international observers, who had expected a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict.

## Usage notes

- Often follows the preposition 'to' (e.g., 'to the consternation of') or is paired with verbs like 'cause' or 'express'.

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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.