Synonyms for

Horrifying

Verb / ˈhɔ:rʌˌfaɪɪŋ / Another word for horrifying — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

causing intense fear, shock, or disgust

Synonyms & similar words

frightful dismay ugly horrible appall horrify atrocious appal alarm terrifying frightening scary shocking appalling disturbing alarming dreadful terrible awful horrific spine-chilling hair-raising nerve-racking petrifying traumatic intimidating daunting chilling bloodcurdling

Synonyms by register

Formal

appalling dreadful frightful terrible

Informal

scary creepy spooky nasty

Literary

ghastly grim grisly

Antonyms

pleasing comforting reassuring calming soothing delightful pleasant

Common collocations

  • horrifying experience
  • horrifying prospect
  • horrifying reality
  • horrifying truth
  • horrifying sight
  • horrifying details
  • horrifying consequences

Word family

noun horror
adjective horrific
adverb horrifically

Usage note

Horrifying describes something that causes extreme fear or shock. It is a strong adjective, often used for events or situations that are deeply disturbing.

Example sentences

  1. The haunted house was horrifying.
  2. The news of the plane crash was horrifying.
  3. The sight of the spider was horrifying to me.
  4. The thought of losing my family is horrifying.
  5. The sound of thunder is horrifying to some people.

Quotes

  • I find horror movies to be really horrifying. - Robin Tunney
  • I think that horror movies and haunted houses are horrifying. - Eliza Dushku
  • There's nothing more horrifying than a story that's true. - Emma Donoghue

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