* Widened Eyes: The eyes are wide open, sometimes bordering on a slight bulging. This allows for maximum intake of visual information, a primal response to something unexpected and significant.
* Raised Eyebrows: The eyebrows are lifted high, creating wrinkles on the forehead. This contributes to the look of surprise and alertness.
* Open Mouth: The mouth is slightly to moderately open. The jaw may be slack, as if the person is speechless or struggling to find the right words.
* Tensed Muscles (Subtle): There might be a slight tension in the muscles around the mouth or jaw, reflecting the intensity of the emotion.
* Overall Impression: The face conveys a sense of being stunned, amazed, and possibly overwhelmed. There's a mix of surprise, disbelief, and wonder.
The key difference between just shock and shock *and awe* is the inclusion of an element of wonder or positive amazement. Just shock can be more fearful or negative. Shock and awe includes an element of "wow!"
Think of someone witnessing a spectacular magic trick, or a breathtaking natural wonder. That's the kind of feeling the expression aims to capture.