Surprise: quick facts
Surprise is the basic emotion that arises when something unexpected happens. It is the briefest of the basic emotions — often lasting only a fraction of a second — and can be positive, neutral, or negative depending on…
Category
Basic emotions
Valence
Neutral
Emotion family / blend
Surprise
Typical triggers
An unexpected or sudden event
How it's expressed
Raised arched brows, wide eyes, open mouth, brief gasp
Sources: Paul Ekman Group — Universal Emotions; American Psychological Association — APA Dictionary: emotion. Educational information only — not medical or psychological advice. See our sources & fact-check policy.