The audience gave him a big round of applause for his performance.

I was surprised by his severe criticism.

The severity of the game surprised the audience.

I was really astonished by his sudden proposal.

I was taken aback by his sudden proposal.

Lo and behold, he passed the exam.

I'm very nervous about today's match.

He won in the singles match.

He lost the match, but through that experience, he won the game of self-growth.