dreadful
/ˈdrɛd.fəl/Extremely bad or unpleasant in a way that causes fear or distress
She had a dreadful experience at the hospital.
She had a very bad and distressing experience at the hospital.
The movie was dreadful, and we left halfway through.
The movie was extremely bad, and they left before it ended.
Often used to emphasize how bad something is, sometimes with a sense of fear or anxiety.
Collocations
💡Pro Tip
Emphasis
Use 'dreadful' to emphasize how bad something is, often with a sense of fear or distress.
Context
Works well for describing weather, experiences, or mistakes that are extremely unpleasant.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Use 'dreadful' sparingly to maintain its impact, as it is a strong word.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'dredful,' meaning 'causing dread,' from 'drede' (fear) + '-ful' (full of).
📝Usage Notes
Often used to describe situations, experiences, or conditions that are very bad in a way that causes distress or fear. Can be used both literally and hyperbolically.