Horrible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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horrible
[ˈhɒr.ə.bəl ]
Definitions
describe a negative feeling or situation
Causing or likely to cause horror; shocking.
Synonyms
appalling, awful, dreadful, ghastly, terrible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| horrible |
Used to describe something very unpleasant or causing a strong feeling of dislike.
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| awful |
Used for a very bad situation, experience, or quality. Often used in casual speech.
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| terrible |
Used to describe something very bad or severe. Often used in a general sense.
|
| dreadful |
Suitable for describing something extremely bad or unpleasant. Often used in British English.
|
| ghastly |
Commonly used to describe something very shocking or unpleasant, can imply a sense of fear or horror.
|
| appalling |
Best for describing something that is shockingly bad or horrific, often used in more formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Horrible crimes were committed.
- She had a horrible feeling that she was being watched.
- The weather was horrible, rainy and cold.
- The food tasted horrible.
- The movie was so horrible that I couldn't finish watching it.
used informally to emphasize the extent of something
Extremely unpleasant or bad.
Synonyms
appalling, awful, dreadful, horrendous, terrible.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| horrible |
Use in situations where something causes intense dislike, fear, or a bad experience.
|
| terrible |
Use to describe something very bad or severe, often used in everyday language.
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| awful |
Use to describe something very bad or unpleasant, in general and everyday situations.
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| dreadful |
Use for situations or events that are extremely bad or causing fear and suffering.
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| appalling |
Use when something is shockingly bad or causing dismay, especially when it's unexpected.
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| horrendous |
Use when something is extremely shocking, terrible, or horrifying.
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Examples of usage
- She has a horrible temper.
- He's in a horrible mess.
- It's a horrible shame that it happened.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Many horror movies use 'horrible' as a key descriptor for terrifying characters or events, heightening suspense.
- The term is often used in online memes to humorously exaggerate minor inconveniences, like missing a bus.
Psychology
- Experiencing something labeled as 'horrible' can trigger strong emotional responses such as fear or disgust.
- Psychologists study how perceptions of 'horrible' events can affect mental health, influencing how we react to real-life fears.
Literature
- Writers often use 'horrible' to create vivid imagery, helping readers feel shocked or moved by the characters' situations.
- In gothic literature, the atmosphere is often described as 'horrible,' heightening a sense of dread and unease.
Language Usage
- 'Horrible' can be used to describe both tangible and intangible things, from a 'horrible meal' to a 'horrible experience.'
- In English, this word can be synonymous with others like 'terrible,' 'awful,' or 'dreadful,' enriching its descriptive power.
Origin of 'horrible'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'horrible' comes from Latin 'horribilis,' meaning 'to tremble' or 'to shudder,' reflecting a sense of fear.
- Its usage in English began around the late 14th century, initially describing things that inspire fear.
The word 'horrible' originated from the Latin word 'horribilis', meaning dreadful or terrible. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. Over time, its usage has evolved to describe things that are extremely unpleasant or causing horror. The word has retained its negative connotation throughout history.
See also: horrendous, horribly, horrific, horrified, horrify, horrifying.