Anticlimax -
A situation where the outcome is much less dramatic than expected.
The final scene was such an anticlimax after all the suspense, that the audience was very disappointed.
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adjective
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Telltale -
Revealing or indicating something hidden or secret, showing the inner nature of something.
The telltale smell of smoke hinted at a fire nearby.
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noun
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Discrepancy -
A difference between two things that are expected to be the same.
Her story had a major discrepancy that made the police suspicious.
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adjective
unthinkable -
So out of the ordinary that it cannot be imagined as possible
When Genghis Khan was born in 1162, it was unthinkable that someone from his nomadic tribe could conquer most of the known world - but that is what he did.
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Mystery -
Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain, a person or thing that arouses curiosity or wonder because it is unknown or puzzling.
The cause of the strange noise in the attic remains a mystery.
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verb
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astonish -
Surprise or impress (someone) greatly
The audience was astonished by the amazing fireworks display at the end of the concert.
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Impact -
The force or action of one object hitting another.
The impact of the car crash was so strong that it damaged both vehicles.
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verb
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astound -
Very surprised or shocked
The American public was astounded by the revelations about Watergate that were revealed by Woodward and Bernstein in the Washington Post.
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verb
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Divulge -
To reveal something secret or private, to make known information that was previously hidden.
The company wouldn't divulge any details about the new product, and it would be top secret until it came out.
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adjective
dumbfounded -
So shocked that you cannot speak
The US public was dumbfounded when the stock market crashed on October 29, 1929.
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adjective
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Appalled -
Filled with dismay or disgust, especially at something morally wrong.
We were appalled at the cost of the car repairs—it was far too high!
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aghast -
Struck with shock, amazement, or horror
When the Stevens family returned home from their two week vacation, they were aghast to find that loads of stray cats were living in their house.
