What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
direful
Example
The direful news of the earthquake left everyone in shock. [direful: adjective]
Example
The direful consequences of climate change are becoming more apparent every day. [direful: adjective]
dreadful
Example
The weather was dreadful, with heavy rain and strong winds. [dreadful: adjective]
Example
The movie was so dreadful that I had to leave the theater. [dreadful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dreadful is more commonly used than direful in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between direful and dreadful?
Direful is more formal than dreadful, and is often used in literature or formal writing.
