How Do You Spell TERRIBLE?

Pronunciation: [tˈɛɹəbə͡l] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "terrible" might seem strange at first glance. However, it can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription system. The stress falls on the second syllable, which is pronounced with a short "e" sound like in "pet". The "r" in the second syllable is silent, indicating the spelling is not "terribler" but "terrible". The final syllable is pronounced with a long "i" sound like in "beet". Therefore, the correct IPA transcription of "terrible" is /ˈtɛr.ə.bəl/.

TERRIBLE Meaning and Definition

  1. Terrible is an adjective used to describe something that is extremely bad, dreadful, or causing great fear or distress. It denotes a feeling of deep negativity, creating a sense of extreme displeasure or apprehension.

    When referring to something as terrible, it often signifies that it is highly undesirable, repulsive, or alarming. It suggests a low quality or standard, and usually implies a strong emotional reaction of disgust or disappointment. For example, a terrible meal would imply that it tasted awful or was poorly executed. Similarly, a terrible performance might refer to a theatrical display that was disastrous or lacked skill.

    Moreover, terrible can signify something that inspires a great deal of fear or horror. This can refer to terrifying events, frightening creatures, or situations resulting in extreme danger. For instance, a terrible accident might allude to a serious and harmful incident. Additionally, terrible can also convey a sense of awe in relation to something overwhelmingly powerful or impressive, such as a terrible storm or a terrible roar.

    While the term terrible generally carries negative connotations, it is important to note that its intensity may vary depending on the context and the subjective experience of the individual using or encountering it.

  2. Adapted to impress terror or dread; fearful; horrible; awful.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for TERRIBLE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for TERRIBLE

Etymology of TERRIBLE

The word "terrible" originated from the Latin word "terribilis", which is derived from the verb "terrere", meaning "to frighten" or "to terrify". The Latin form "terribilis" was used to describe something that inspires fear or invokes terror. Over time, the word made its way into Old French as "terrible" and eventually entered Middle English with the same spelling and meaning.

Idioms with the word TERRIBLE

  • an enfant terrible The idiom "an enfant terrible" refers to a person, typically young and unconventional, who behaves or acts in a way that is shocking, controversial, or outrageous, often challenging social norms or expectations. It is used to describe someone who is seen as a disruptive force or a troublemaker.
  • enfant terrible The idiom "enfant terrible" refers to a person, typically young and talented, who behaves or speaks in a shocking, unconventional, or controversial manner, often defying societal norms and expectations. The term is often applied to individuals in the creative or artistic fields who challenge established traditions and provoke a reaction through their provocative actions or ideas.
  • a mind is a terrible thing to waste The idiom "a mind is a terrible thing to waste" means that it is a great tragedy to see someone with intellectual potential not utilizing or developing their mental abilities. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing and utilizing one's intelligence and talents to their fullest extent.
  • I'm terrible at names. The idiom "I'm terrible at names" is a phrase used to express that someone is not good at remembering or recalling people's names. It implies that the person often struggles to recall the names of individuals they have met or interacted with, and may require assistance to remember them.
  • paint a terrible, depressing, rosy, etc. picture To present a certain depiction or portrayal, typically exaggerating a negative or positive aspect of a situation, event, or subject.

Similar spelling words for TERRIBLE

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