horrifying
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /həˈrɪfaɪɪŋ/
KK: /hɔːrɪfaɪɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing a strong feeling of fear or shock.
Example
The movie was so horrifying that I couldn't sleep afterwards.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more horrifying
Superlative: most horrifying
Conversation
Did you see that new horror movie last night?
Yeah, it was absolutely horrifying!
I couldn't believe some of the scenes they included.
I know, right? It really pushed the limits of what’s scary.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
frightening
terrifying
appalling
Antonyms
pleasant
reassuring
comforting
verb
Definition
To cause someone to feel extreme fear or shock.
Example
The movie was so horrifying that I couldn't sleep afterwards.
Tense Forms
Past: horrified
Past Participle: horrified
Conversation
Did you see that new horror movie?
Yeah, it was horrifying! I couldn't sleep afterwards.
I know, right? The jump scares were just too much.
Root Explanation
Horrifying → It is formed from "horrere" (meaning to tremble or shudder) and the suffix "-fy" (meaning to make). The word "horrifying" means to make someone tremble or shudder due to fear or shock.
Memory Tip
Think of something that makes you 'tremble' ('horrere') with fear — that's why horrifying means something that causes fear.
Visually Confused Words
terrifying
mortifying
fortifying