Jolting

The word 'jolting' describes something that causes a sudden, abrupt, and often jarring movement or experience. This can be physical, such as a sudden impact or jerk, or figurative, relating to a surprising or upsetting event. A jolting experience can disrupt a state of equilibrium, whether literal or metaphorical, and provoke a feeling of unease, shock, or displacement. It often implies a loss of smoothness or predictability, leading to a temporary or sometimes lasting feeling of instability. The intensity of the 'jolting' can range from a minor disturbance to a significant upheaval, depending on the context and the degree of the disruption. This can be caused by a physical impact, a sudden change in circumstances, or a piece of unexpected news.

Jolting meaning with examples

• The old car provided a jolting ride over the cobblestone streets. Each bump sent a jolt through my spine, making it difficult to concentrate on the scenery. The constant jostling made me feel nauseous, and by the time we arrived, I was ready for a very slow, steady ride. This physical jolting definitely highlighted the need for suspension.
• Receiving the unexpected audit notification was a jolting experience. My team was confident of compliance, but the sudden announcement created anxiety, as the potential for errors were revealed. I was forced to swiftly gather documents and prepare for thorough scrutiny. It left me with a sense of uncertainty about the company's financial health.
• The news of the sudden price hike on gasoline was a jolting blow to commuters and businesses. Many were taken aback at the increase in costs and had to rework budgets. This jolting increase triggered concerns about inflation and affected people’s driving habits. They all became more cost-conscious about how much they traveled.
• Her sudden departure from the team delivered a jolting shock, leaving everyone feeling unprepared. Her experience was invaluable, and her absence disrupted the workflow, forcing immediate adjustments. The team now had to fill her position by reviewing resumes and interviewing candidates which created immediate pressure and tension.