Atrocious: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe something extremely bad or unpleasant, often used for actions or conditions that are shocking in their severity. This word carries a negative connotation.

• The living conditions in the refugee camps were atrocious
• Her behavior at the party was simply atrocious

Describes something intensely disturbing or frightening, frequently used for events or actions that are terrifying. It has a strong negative tone.

• The victims shared the horrific details of the accident
• The movie was based on a horrific true story

Ideal for describing something that causes fear, alarm, or concern, often used in everyday contexts for both serious and less serious matters. Negative connotation.

• The weather this week has been dreadful
• He felt a dreadful sense of panic when he realized he was lost

Used to highlight something that shocks or horrifies due to its severity or the extent of its negative impact. Commonly applied to situations or behavior. This word also carries a negative connotation.

• The appalling working conditions at the factory were exposed by the media
• She made an appalling mistake during the job interview

Best suited for describing something that is morally repugnant or causes intense disgust. Often used for evil deeds or actions. This word has a strong negative connotation.

• The abominable acts of the dictator were condemned worldwide
• The food served at the restaurant was abominable

Typically used to describe particularly evil crimes or actions that are shockingly wicked. It has a very strong negative connotation.

• The murderer was sentenced to life in prison for his heinous crimes
• Her heinous betrayal of her friends left everyone in shock

Use for something extremely bad and shocking, typically in a way that creates strong disapproval or horror.

• The living conditions in the camp were atrocious
• Her treatment of the animal was simply atrocious

A broad term used to describe something very bad in quality or causing distress.

• The movie was terrible and boring
• She made a terrible mistake that cost the company a lot of money

General term for something very bad or unpleasant, can describe situations, feelings, or quality.

• I felt awful after eating that food
• The weather today is just awful

Used to express strong dislike or disgust, often for behaviors or situations.

• The taste of that medicine was horrible
• His behavior at the party was horrible

Conveys a sense of great fear, suffering, or unhappiness, often in describing news or situations.

• The news of the accident was dreadful
• She had a dreadful headache all day

Describes something that is extremely poor or bad, often in the context of performance, quality, or situation.

• His performance on the test was abysmal
• The quality of service at the restaurant was abysmal