What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abysmal
Example
The team's performance was abysmal, losing every game this season. [abysmal: adjective]
Example
She felt abysmal after the breakup, unable to find any joy in life. [abysmal: adjective]
dreadful
Example
The weather was dreadful, with heavy rain and strong winds. [dreadful: adjective]
Example
The news of the accident was dreadful, leaving everyone in shock. [dreadful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dreadful is more commonly used than abysmal in everyday language. Dreadful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while abysmal is less common and may be considered more formal or academic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abysmal and dreadful?
While dreadful is typically associated with an informal tone, abysmal is more formal and academic in nature.
