Word
terrifying
Phoneticster·ri·fy·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtɛɹəˌfaɪɪŋ/
UK/tˈɛɹɪfˌaɪɪŋ/
Definition
adj. making you feel very scared or full of fear.
adj. causing extreme fear, dread, or alarm.
Examples
“The loud thunder was terrifying for the young children.”
“Driving through the mountain pass during the blizzard was a terrifying experience for the whole family.”
“The documentary provides a terrifying glimpse into the potential consequences of unchecked climate change on coastal civilizations.”
Examples
simple
“The loud thunder was terrifying for the young children.”
contextual
“Driving through the mountain pass during the blizzard was a terrifying experience for the whole family.”
complex
“The documentary provides a terrifying glimpse into the potential consequences of unchecked climate change on coastal civilizations.”
Pitfall
I was very terrifying when I saw the snake.
I was very terrified when I saw the snake.
Use 'terrifying' to describe the thing that causes fear, and 'terrified' to describe how a person feels.
Real-World Examples
“The detectives suspect a more material and dangerous adversary behind the scenes, with access to a terrifying weapon.” “When Caiden and Sam help Caiden’s dad clear a creepy house, they don’t realise they’ve brought back a terrifying uninvited guest.” Synonyms
Antonyms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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