Infernal: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe something extremely unpleasant or annoying, and can also refer to hell or the underworld in a more general, dramatic sense.

• The infernal noise from the construction site kept me awake all night.
• The infernal heat of the desert was unbearable.

Used to describe something extremely unpleasant, harsh, or difficult, evoking the suffering or conditions of hell.

• The road trip turned into a hellish nightmare with the constant breakdowns.
• The hellish working conditions made it impossible for anyone to stay long.

Usually refers to something evil or wicked, often with a sense of cleverness or cunning involved. It has strong negative connotations.

• Her diabolical plan was designed to bring down the entire company.
• The villain's diabolical laugh sent shivers down their spines.

Describes something very evil or cruel, often involving extreme malice or wicked intelligence. It has a strong negative connotation.

• The fiendish plot was crafted to cause maximum harm.
• He gave a fiendish smile as he set his trap.

Use in contexts that imply something causing great trouble or torment, often with a sense of being hellish or extremely unpleasant. It is a strong, dramatic word and should be used sparingly.

• The noise from the construction site was infernal and made it impossible to concentrate.
• He felt like he was trapped in an infernal nightmare that he couldn't escape.

Applies to situations where something causes mild to moderate annoyance. It is less intense than 'exasperating' and 'infernal'.

• The buzzing of the mosquito in the room was irritating.
• His habit of tapping his pen on the desk was irritating to everyone around him.

Best used when describing something that causes intense annoyance or frustration, often because it is persistent or difficult to deal with.

• Her constant interruptions were exasperating during the meeting.
• The printer's tendency to jam at the worst moments was exasperating.

Refers to something that is difficult and troubling, often causing irritation and perplexity in the process. It has a slightly formal tone.

• The new policy changes were vexing for the employees, creating a lot of confusion.
• She found the puzzle vexing, as no matter how much she tried, she couldn't solve it.