Literary notes about consternated (AI summary)
Writers often use "consternated" to capture a moment of emotional upheaval—ranging from acute dismay to perplexity—that disrupts a character’s composure. In some cases, the term paints a picture of internal sadness mingled with confusion, as when a character is overwhelmed by a profound sense of loss or bewilderment [1]. Elsewhere, it describes a visibly troubled or uncertain reaction, such as a slightly dismayed countenance in response to an unexpected remark [2], or even a public collective state of disapproval and shock [3]. At times, the word is employed both humorously and critically, as characters react with nervous laughter or question the very notion of their consternation [4], [5], [6]. This versatility allows authors to layer both the external behaviors and the internal emotional landscapes of their characters.
- They are words of wisdom so profound that they sink deep into the soul of his pupil, and fill him with a consternated sadness and perplexity.
— from A House-Party, Don Gesualdo, and A Rainy June by Ouida - “Oh dear, then,” said Miss Georgiana, looking a little consternated, “perhaps you won't thank me for calling you to this place!”
— from The Diary and Letters of Madame D'Arblay — Volume 1 by Fanny Burney - We may not be able to produce it, like a yard-measure, and submit works of imagination to it, once and for all, in the eyes of a consternated public.
— from Some Diversions of a Man of Letters by Edmund Gosse - Consternated, he stared at a mattress cover dappled like a constellation from his soiling, and he laughed nervously.
— from An Apostate: Nawin of Thais by Steven David Justin Sills - [ As they depart , Ruy Blas speaks to the other consternated Counsellors: Every man Who will not serve Spain honestly must go.
— from The World's Greatest Books — Volume 17 — Poetry and Drama - But, perhaps, you will ask, "who is consternated ,"?
— from Life of Johnson, Volume 3 1776-1780 by James Boswell
