Frightful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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frightful
[หfraษชtfl ]
Definitions
scary
Causing fear or dread; terrifying. Synonyms: terrifying, horrifying, alarming. Frightful noises could be heard coming from the abandoned house. The sight of the ghostly figure was truly frightful.
Synonyms
alarming, horrifying, terrifying.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| frightful |
Use in situations that are disturbing but not necessarily life-threatening. It can describe something unpleasant or shocking.
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| terrifying |
Used to describe something that induces strong fear or terror, often related to life-threatening situations.
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| horrifying |
Ideal for describing something that is extremely shocking and causes a strong feeling of horror or disgust.
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| alarming |
Best used when describing something that causes worry or concern because it suggests danger or a problem.
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Examples of usage
- The horror movie was so frightful that I had nightmares for weeks.
- The sudden appearance of a strange figure in the dark alley was frightful.
shocking
Extremely bad or unpleasant. Synonyms: shocking, appalling, dreadful. The news of the accident was frightful to hear. The conditions in the prison were frightful.
Synonyms
appalling, dreadful, shocking.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| frightful |
Used to describe something very bad or unpleasant, often causing fear or shock. More common in British English and often has a slightly old-fashioned tone.
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| shocking |
Specifically used to describe something that causes a strong feeling of surprise, disapproval, or emotional upset. The emphasis is often on the suddenness or intensity of the surprise.
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| appalling |
Used to describe something that is very bad, shocking, or disgusting, often implying a sense of horror or outrage.
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| dreadful |
Usually used to describe something extremely bad or unpleasant, often in a way that causes fear, shock, or discomfort. Again, more common in British English.
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Examples of usage
- The extent of the damage caused by the hurricane was frightful.
- The lack of basic necessities in the refugee camp was frightful.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In horror stories, frightful creatures often prompt suspense and excitement, engaging readers' imagination.
- Classic Gothic literature often uses frightful settings, like haunted castles, to evoke fear and tension.
Film and Pop Culture
- Frightful imagery is a staple in horror films, designed to create shock and provoke strong emotions in viewers.
- Characters like ghosts or vampires are often depicted as frightful, playing on common fears and anxieties.
Psychology
- Experiencing fright can trigger the 'fight or flight' response, a natural reaction to danger.
- Frightful experiences are often linked to adrenaline rushes that can be both exhilarating and terrifying.
Folklore
- Many cultures have frightful tales, such as urban legends, that are passed down to warn or teach moral lessons.
- Frightful creatures in folklore, like werewolves or banshees, often embody societal fears and anxieties.
Origin of 'frightful'
Main points about word origin
- The word dates back to the 14th century, combining 'fright,' meaning fear, and the suffix '-ful,' indicating fullness.
- Originally, its use was broader, describing anything that elicits fear, not just physical appearances.
The word 'frightful' has its origins in the Middle English word 'frightfull' which meant full of fright or fear. The suffix '-ful' in English is used to form adjectives indicating the presence of the quality that the base word suggests. Over time, 'frightful' evolved to mean causing fear or dread. The word has been in use for centuries to describe alarming or terrifying situations.
See also: fright, frighten, frightened, frightening, frightfully.