Horrible: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something very unpleasant or causing a strong feeling of dislike.

• The weather today is horrible
• She had a horrible nightmare

Used for a very bad situation, experience, or quality. Often used in casual speech.

• The food at the restaurant was awful
• I had an awful day at work

Used to describe something very bad or severe. Often used in a general sense.

• I have a terrible headache
• The movie was absolutely terrible

Suitable for describing something extremely bad or unpleasant. Often used in British English.

• Her performance in the play was dreadful
• The news from the doctor was dreadful

Commonly used to describe something very shocking or unpleasant, can imply a sense of fear or horror.

• He looked ghastly after the accident
• The room was in a ghastly state

Best for describing something that is shockingly bad or horrific, often used in more formal contexts.

• The conditions in the prison were appalling
• It is appalling that this happens in our society

Use in situations where something causes intense dislike, fear, or a bad experience.

• The food at that restaurant was horrible
• She had a horrible nightmare last night

Use to describe something very bad or severe, often used in everyday language.

• She had a terrible headache
• The service at the hotel was terrible

Use to describe something very bad or unpleasant, in general and everyday situations.

• The movie was awful
• I feel awful about missing your party

Use for situations or events that are extremely bad or causing fear and suffering.

• She had a dreadful experience at the dentist
• The weather this week has been dreadful

Use when something is shockingly bad or causing dismay, especially when it's unexpected.

• The conditions in the refugee camp are appalling
• His lack of manners was appalling

Use when something is extremely shocking, terrible, or horrifying.

• The crime scene was horrendous
• The traffic this morning was horrendous