What Does “Terrifying” Mean?
The word terrifying is an adjective that describes something that causes extreme fear, intense dread, or horror. It is often used to depict situations, experiences, or entities that evoke profound fright or alarm.
Synonyms for “Terrifying”
Strongest Matches (Extreme Fear)
- Horrifying
- Petrifying
- Bone-chilling
- Spine-chilling
- Bloodcurdling
- Hair-raising
Strong Matches (Severe Fear)
- Frightening
- Startling
- Dreadful
- Nightmarish
- Alarming
- Shocking
- Disturbing
Weak Matches (Mild Fear or Concern)
- Unnerving
- Eerie
- Creepy
- Intimidating
- Troubling
- Daunting
- Apprehensive
Example Sentences Using “Terrifying”
- The terrifying sound of the howling wind sent shivers down my spine.
- She had a terrifying experience when she got lost in the dense forest at night.
- The horror movie featured some truly terrifying jump scares.
- He had a terrifying encounter with a bear while hiking.
- The roller coaster ride was both thrilling and terrifying at the same time.
Contextual Usage of “Terrifying”
Horror & Thrillers
“Terrifying” is commonly used in the entertainment industry, particularly in horror films, literature, and haunted attractions. It is used to describe supernatural entities, suspenseful moments, and grotesque imagery.
- Example: The ghost stories were so terrifying that I couldn’t sleep for days.
Extreme Situations & Disasters
The word is frequently applied to natural disasters, accidents, and emergency situations.
- Example: The terrifying earthquake shook the entire city, leaving destruction in its wake.
Psychological & Emotional States
It can also describe deep personal fears, anxiety, or existential dread.
- Example: The thought of public speaking is absolutely terrifying to her.
Thrill & Excitement
In some contexts, “terrifying” is used in a semi-positive or thrilling way, such as describing an adrenaline-pumping experience.
- Example: The terrifying speed of the race car was exhilarating to witness.
Related Words & Concepts
- Fear
- Panic
- Horror
- Dread
- Anxiety
- Phobia
- Terror
- Nightmare
Additional Information
Etymology: The word “terrifying” comes from the Latin terrere, meaning “to frighten.”
Grammar: “Terrifying” is an adjective. The noun form is “terror,” and the verb form is “terrify.”
Common Collocations:
- Terrifying experience
- Terrifying nightmare
- Terrifying thought
- Terrifying storm
- Absolutely terrifying
Disclaimer
The word “terrifying” is subjective and may carry different intensities of meaning depending on context. This guide is for educational and SEO purposes only and should not be interpreted as a medical or psychological assessment of fear-related conditions.
