a dreadful role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dreadful role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a part or position that is unpleasant, difficult, or undesirable, often in the context of acting, work, or responsibilities. Example: "After reading the script, I realized that playing the villain would be a dreadful role for me, as I prefer more sympathetic characters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Resigned to watching high-ranking clerics play down the excesses of Silvio Berlusconi — a dreadful role model but an obsequious ally — they are astonished to see the pope distance himself from politics.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

November brought the first execution in eight years, of Ajmal Kasab, a Pakistani convicted for his role in a dreadful terrorist attack on Mumbai in 2008.

The Economist

At the same time that he was constantly invoking his celebrity, Schwarzenegger used self-deprecating humor (about his role in a dreadful movie like "Hercules in New York," or his never having received an Oscar) to show that he did not have an inflated sense of his own importance.

The New Yorker

The KGB had a dreadful history, but Mr Putin's role was seemingly anodyne.But that calculus holds only if modern day rulers show no hint of sympathy for their predecessors' atrocities.

The Economist

A dreadful controversy indeed!

The New Yorker

What a dreadful impoverishment.

The New York Times

A dreadful thought occurs.

The Economist

A dreadful end.

Independent

It's a dreadful, dreadful thing".

The Guardian - Film

It is a dreadful, dreadful meal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was a dreadful, dreadful blow.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dreadful role", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the role undesirable or unpleasant. Provide specific reasons or examples to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid pairing "dreadful" with other weak or redundant adjectives. Instead of saying "a very dreadful role", let "dreadful" stand alone to maintain its strong negative connotation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a dreadful role" is that of a noun phrase, where "dreadful" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "role". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dreadful role" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to express a strong dislike or negative sentiment toward a specific task, position, or part. While relatively infrequent, its appearance in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist validates its correct usage. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is generally considered correct and appropriate for expressing negativity in various contexts. When using "a dreadful role", remember to ensure the context clarifies the specific reasons for its undesirability and avoid pairing "dreadful" with redundant adjectives. Consider alternatives like "a terrible part" or "an unenviable task" to fine-tune the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a terrible part

Replaces "dreadful" with "terrible", indicating a strong sense of dislike or negativity.

an awful position

Shifts from "role" to "position", suggesting a negative situation or duty.

an unenviable task

Replaces "dreadful role" with a phrase that emphasizes the lack of desirability.

a challenging responsibility

Focuses on the difficulty and demanding nature of the role.

a disagreeable duty

Highlights the unpleasant aspect of the obligation.

an undesirable job

Emphasizes the lack of appeal in the work.

a thankless assignment

Suggests that the role offers no appreciation or reward.

an odious task

Uses "odious" to convey a sense of repugnance or strong dislike.

a grim undertaking

Indicates that the role is somber and potentially unpleasant.

a burdensome obligation

Stresses the heavy and taxing nature of the responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "a dreadful role" in a sentence?

You can use "a dreadful role" to describe a task, position, or part that is unpleasant or undesirable, such as, "Playing the villain was "a dreadful role" for her, as she prefers playing heroes."

What are some alternatives to "a dreadful role"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a terrible part", "an awful position", or "an unenviable task", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes "a dreadful role" different from "a difficult role"?

"A dreadful role" emphasizes the unpleasantness or undesirability of the role, while "a difficult role" focuses on the challenges and effort required. A role can be difficult without being dreadful, and vice versa.

Is it appropriate to use "a dreadful role" in formal writing?

Yes, "a dreadful role" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when conveying a strong negative sentiment about a specific task or position. However, consider the audience and purpose to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.