What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
horrified
Example
I was horrified when I saw the car accident on the highway. [horrified: adjective]
Example
The news of the terrorist attack left me feeling horrified and helpless. [horrified: past participle]
terrified
Example
I'm terrified of spiders. [terrified: adjective]
Example
She was so terrified of flying that she refused to board the plane. [terrified: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Terrified is more commonly used than horrified in everyday language. Terrified is a more intense emotion and is often used to describe extreme fear and panic, which is a more common experience than being horrified.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between horrified and terrified?
Both horrified and terrified are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing. However, terrified is more commonly used in informal contexts as well.
