Sobresaltados

Sobresaltados is a Spanish word that translates to startled, frightened, or taken by surprise. It describes a sudden and often involuntary reaction to something unexpected or alarming. This reaction can manifest physically, such as jumping, gasping, or a rapid heartbeat, and emotionally, as a feeling of fear or unease.

The term can be used in various contexts. For instance, someone might be sobresaltado by a loud noise, a sudden appearance of a person or animal, or an unexpected piece of news. It implies a moment of intense, brief shock that disrupts a person's state of calm or attention. The intensity of being sobresaltado can range from mild surprise to significant fear, depending on the nature of the stimulus.

In literature and film, the feeling of being sobresaltado is often used to create suspense, introduce conflict, or highlight a character's vulnerability. It's a common human experience that resonates across cultures, though the specific word and its nuances vary in different languages. Understanding sobresaltados means grasping that sudden, jolting moment when the unexpected intrudes upon the ordinary.