Sticker shock Meaning in English
expression
Definition
The strong surprise or shock people feel when they see the high price of something, especially when it is much more expensive than expected.
Usage & Nuances
'Sticker shock' is informal and mostly used in the US. Commonly appears in contexts like car buying, real estate, or hospital bills. It always refers to negative surprise at a high price. Not used for positively surprising prices or small price differences.
Example Sentences
When I saw the price of the new phone, I got sticker shock.
basic
Many people experience sticker shock when shopping for cars.
basic
I wasn't ready for the sticker shock at the grocery store.
basic
Be prepared for some serious sticker shock if you visit that fancy restaurant.
natural
The hospital bill gave her a real case of sticker shock.
natural
After seeing the cost of plane tickets this summer, everyone had sticker shock.
natural