awful

[ˈɔːf(ə)l]

awful Definition

• 1. very bad or unpleasant
• 2. causing fear or dread
• 3. used to emphasize the degree to which something is bad or unpleasant

Using awful: Examples

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

• Example

  The weather was awful yesterday.

• Example

  She had an awful headache.

• Example

  The movie was just awful.

• Example

  I have an awful feeling about this.

awful Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for awful

• terrible
• dreadful
• horrible
• atrocious
• appalling

Antonyms for awful

• wonderful
• delightful
• pleasant

Phrases with awful

• awful silence

  a silence that is uncomfortable or oppressive

  Example

  The only sound in the room was the ticking of the clock, and it created an awful silence.

• awful truth

  a truth that is unpleasant or difficult to accept

  Example

  The awful truth is that we may never find a cure for this disease.

• awful smell

  a smell that is very unpleasant or offensive

  Example

  The garbage had been sitting in the sun for days, and it gave off an awful smell.

Origins of awful

from Old English 'egefull', meaning 'full of awe'

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Summary: awful in Brief

The term 'awful' [ˈɔːf(ə)l] refers to something that is very bad or unpleasant, causing fear or dread. It can be used to emphasize the degree to which something is bad or unpleasant. Examples include 'The weather was awful yesterday' and 'She had an awful headache.' Phrases like 'awful silence' and 'awful truth' use 'awful' to denote uncomfortable or unpleasant situations.