terrible

[ˈtɛrəbl]

terrible Definition

  • 1extremely bad or unpleasant
  • 2causing great fear or terror

Using terrible: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "terrible" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The weather was terrible, with heavy rain and strong winds.

  • Example

    The food was terrible, I couldn't eat it.

  • Example

    The accident was terrible, several people were injured.

  • Example

    The movie was terrible, I fell asleep halfway through.

terrible Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for terrible

Antonyms for terrible

Phrases with terrible

  • terrible twos

    a phase in a child's development, typically around the age of two, characterized by difficult behavior and tantrums

    Example

    My daughter is going through the terrible twos, she throws a tantrum every time I say no.

  • something that is both terrifying and beautiful at the same time

    Example

    The view from the top of the mountain was a terrible beauty, with the steep drop-offs and stunning vistas.

  • a phrase used to describe a powerful and destructive force, often used in reference to war or conflict

    Example

    The army marched forward with their terrible swift sword, leaving destruction in their wake.

Origins of terrible

from Latin 'terribilis', meaning 'causing terror'

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Summary: terrible in Brief

The word 'terrible' [ˈtɛrəbl] describes something that is extremely bad or unpleasant, or that causes great fear or terror. It can be used to describe anything from the weather to a movie, as in 'The weather was terrible' or 'The movie was terrible.' The term also includes phrases like 'terrible twos,' referring to a difficult phase in a child's development, and 'terrible beauty,' describing something that is both terrifying and beautiful.

How do native speakers use this expression?