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verschrikkelijk — meaning in English: terrible
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informal
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 'verschrikkelijk' in everyday conversations when describing something profoundly disappointing or upsetting. For example, a parent might express their feelings about a child's poor performance in school, saying, 'Het resultaat was echt verschrikkelijk!' (The result was really terrible!). Similarly, after watching a disappointing film, someone might say, 'Die film was verschrikkelijk!' (That movie was terrible!).
Synonyms & nuances
'Verschrikkelijk' can be compared to 'vreselijk', another synonym for 'terrible'. While both convey a strong sense of negativity, 'vreselijk' might be used in slightly more formal contexts, whereas 'verschrikkelijk' fits snugly into casual discussions, enhancing emotional expression.
Culture
The word 'verschrikkelijk' comes from the Dutch root 'schrik', which means 'fright' or 'fear', reflecting its strong emotional weight. In Dutch culture, expressing dismay or disappointment openly is quite common, and using 'verschrikkelijk' adds a dramatic flair to the sentiment, making it a favorite among speakers to emphasize their feelings.
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