What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hideous
Example
The painting was so hideous that I couldn't bear to look at it. [hideous: adjective]
Example
She had a hideous scar on her face from the accident. [hideous: adjective]
Example
The dictator's hideous crimes against humanity were exposed in the international court. [hideous: adjective]
monstrous
Example
The monstrous waves crashed against the shore during the storm. [monstrous: adjective]
Example
He committed a monstrous act of violence against his own family. [monstrous: adjective]
Example
The company's profits were a monstrous amount, exceeding all expectations. [monstrous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hideous is more commonly used than monstrous in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications. Monstrous is less common and is usually reserved for more extreme situations or events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hideous and monstrous?
Both hideous and monstrous are considered formal words, but monstrous may be perceived as more formal due to its association with more serious or extreme situations.
