# stagger

**Pronunciation:** /ˈstæɡər/ · STAG-er

**CEFR level:** B1

**Part of speech:** verb

## Meaning 1

To walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall.

## Examples

- The injured soldier had to stagger back to the barracks.
- She staggered out of the bar, unable to walk straight.
- He staggered under the weight of the heavy boxes.

## Meaning 2: Surprise or Shock

To cause someone to be shocked or surprised.

## Examples

- The news of the company's bankruptcy staggered the employees.
- She was staggered by the sheer amount of work she had to do.
- His incredible performance staggered the audience.

## Meaning 3: Scheduling

To arrange for things to happen at different times.

## Examples

- We decided to stagger the deliveries to avoid congestion.
- The company staggered the start times for its employees.
- The concerts will be staggered throughout the summer.

## Common patterns

- stagger back — To move backward unsteadily. — He staggered back in surprise when he saw the ghost.
- stagger under — To move unsteadily because of a heavy weight or burden. — The porter staggered under the weight of the luggage.
- staggered by — To be shocked or surprised by something. — They were staggered by the unexpected results.

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