What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
atrocious
Example
The food at that restaurant was atrocious. [atrocious: adjective]
Example
The dictator committed atrocious acts against his own people. [atrocious: adjective]
horrible
Example
I had a horrible nightmare last night. [horrible: adjective]
Example
The way he treated his employees was absolutely horrible. [horrible: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Horrible is more commonly used than atrocious in everyday language. Horrible is a more general term that covers a wider range of negative experiences, while atrocious is reserved for more severe or extreme situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between atrocious and horrible?
Both atrocious and horrible can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, atrocious may sound more formal due to its stronger and more subjective connotations.
