[I'm shocked ... shocked!] NYT

The crossword clue "[I'm shocked ... shocked!]" with the answer "GASP" refers to the involuntary reaction of surprise or astonishment. The term "GASP" describes a sudden intake of breath, typically in response to something unexpected or shocking.

In the context of the clue, the phrase implies a dramatic, immediate reaction to a surprising revelation or event. The use of "GASP" effectively conveys this instinctive response, which is often characterized by a sharp, audible intake of breath as a person reacts to something startling or unbelievable. The clue encapsulates this sense of shock and amazement that is commonly expressed through the act of gasping.

The crossword clue "[I'm shocked ... shocked!]" with the answer "STUNNED" refers to the idea of someone being utterly surprised or taken aback by something unexpected. The phrase within the brackets, "I'm shocked ... shocked!" is a hyperbolic expression often used in a dramatic or ironic way to emphasize the extent of the shock or surprise someone feels.

The word "STUNNED" is a synonym for being shocked or astonished, capturing the same sense of being overwhelmed by surprise. In the context of the crossword, this clue uses a common phrase to evoke the emotional state described by the answer, making "STUNNED" a fitting solution. The ellipsis in the clue suggests a pause or dramatic emphasis, adding to the sense of surprise that the answer conveys.

The crossword clue "[I'm shocked ... shocked!]" with the answer "ASTONISHED" refers to a situation where someone experiences a profound level of surprise or amazement. The phrase "I'm shocked ... shocked!" is an exaggerated or emphatic way of expressing disbelief or surprise, often used humorously or dramatically.

The word "ASTONISHED" is a synonym for being greatly surprised or amazed, perfectly aligning with the sentiment conveyed by the clue. The use of ellipsis in the clue suggests a dramatic pause, further emphasizing the depth of the surprise. Therefore, "ASTONISHED" fits as the answer, capturing the essence of being overwhelmingly surprised in a way that matches the dramatic tone of the clue.

The crossword clue "[I'm shocked ... shocked!]" with the answer "FLABBERGASTED" refers to a reaction of extreme surprise and bewilderment. The phrase "I'm shocked ... shocked!" is a deliberately exaggerated expression, often used to convey a heightened state of surprise, sometimes with a touch of irony.

"FLABBERGASTED" is an informal and vivid word that describes someone who is utterly astonished, almost to the point of being speechless. The clue's dramatic tone, emphasized by the ellipsis, matches the intensity of the word "FLABBERGASTED," making it an appropriate answer. The choice of this particular word adds a layer of intensity to the expression of surprise, capturing the sense of being completely overwhelmed by an unexpected event or revelation.