Terrible: meaning, definitions and examples

This is used to describe something very bad or unpleasant. It is a general term that can be applied to many situations.

• She had a terrible headache
• The weather was terrible yesterday

This is often used to describe something extremely bad or unpleasant, sometimes with a sense of shock or surprise.

• The food tasted awful
• He felt awful after hearing the bad news

This can be used to describe something very bad or causing great fear or suffering. It is often more dramatic than 'terrible' or 'awful'.

• The movie was absolutely dreadful
• She had a dreadful experience at the dentist

This word describes something causing horror or something extremely unpleasant. It can be a bit stronger and more emotional than 'terrible' or 'awful'.

• The accident was a horrible sight
• She had a horrible day at work

This is used to describe something that causes fear or alarm. It is generally used when the situation or thing poses a threat or seems scary.

• The haunted house was frightening
• It was a frightening moment when the lights went out

General use for something very bad or unpleasant.

• The weather was terrible today
• He felt terrible after eating too much candy

Commonly used to describe something very bad or unpleasant, similar to 'terrible'.

• The food tasted awful
• He had an awful headache

Used to describe something very unpleasant, frightening, or disgusting.

• She had a horrible nightmare
• The news about the accident was horrible

Describes something extremely bad or severe, often with a sense of shock or disgust.

• The service at the restaurant was atrocious
• The movie was an atrocious waste of time

Used for something extremely bad, often regarding performance or quality.

• Her performance in the exam was abysmal
• The team's abysmal effort led to their defeat

Used to describe something very bad or unpleasant. Often has a negative connotation.

• The weather was terrible yesterday
• He felt terrible after eating too much

Used to emphasize an adjective or adverb. This is a more general term and is less intense compared to 'extremely' or 'exceedingly.'

• She is very kind
• The meeting was very important

Similar to 'very,' but with a higher degree of intensity. Can describe both positive and negative situations.

• The road was extremely dangerous at night
• She was extremely pleased with the results

Used to describe something that is much better than usual, often in a positive context.

• He is an exceptionally talented musician
• The dinner was exceptionally delicious

Used to emphasize the degree to which something is true or occurs. Typically, it has a stronger emphasis than 'very.'

• She was exceedingly happy with the news
• The movie was exceedingly boring