a dreadful scene

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dreadful scene" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is shocking, horrifying, or extremely unpleasant. Example: "The movie's climax featured a dreadful scene that left the audience in stunned silence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

All the Japanese soldiers there had been long dead; it was a dreadful scene.

Independent

This sense of fast-rising unease is answered by a dreadful scene as the men, some dozen and a half in number, rapidly swarm into the house and attack the two women inside, Yone (Nobuko Otowa, Mr. Shindo's wife) and her daughter-in-law, Shige (Kiwako Taichi).

The New York Times

William Huskisson already believed that he was dying and had resigned himself to his fate; Emily Huskisson at first caused "a dreadful scene ... but at last she calmed herself and during the rest of the time sat weeping by the couch".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The problem with the opening, however, is that it's a perfectly dreadful scene.

The New York Times

It is a dreadful prospect.

The Guardian - Opinion

What a dreadful view.

Huffington Post

Here he got a closer look at "all the phenomena of that dreadful scene", and eventually acknowledged the urgency of a rescue mission – only to be choked by fumes on the beach.

The Guardian

Reilly even overcomes a dreadful drunk scene with her mother which thankfully was not in the movie.

The Guardian

Before daylight on Tuesday morning, a considerable concourse of people were assembled to witness the dreadful scene of the execution of three of our fellow creatures, viz: Ann Norris, for a robbery in a dwelling-house; Samuel Hayward, for a burglary at Somerstown; and Joseph South, for uttering a forged £10 note.

The Guardian

Her eye was caught by one of the classical lady's attendants who was depicted running away from the dreadful scene in alarm.

The New York Times

To reach St. Olave, Hart Street, whose uncompromisingly grim churchyard was supposedly the inspiration for the final dreadful scene of Dickens's "Bleak House," we passed the modern bravura of Richard Rogers's skyscraper for Lloyd's of London.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dreadful scene", consider the emotional impact you want to create. This phrase is effective for conveying intense feelings of horror, disgust, or deep unease. Make sure the surrounding text builds up to and supports this level of emotional intensity.

Common error

Avoid using "a dreadful scene" to describe mildly unpleasant or inconvenient situations. This phrase is best reserved for genuinely shocking, disturbing, or catastrophic events to maintain its intended impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dreadful scene" functions as a noun phrase, where "dreadful" modifies the noun "scene". It is used to describe a specific occurrence or situation that evokes strong negative emotions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a dreadful scene" is a grammatically sound and usable expression employed to depict a situation characterized by horror, shock, or profound unpleasantness. Ludwig AI analysis affirms its validity, highlighting its function as a noun phrase. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, particularly within news and media reporting. When deploying this phrase, consider the intended emotional impact, reserving it for scenarios that genuinely warrant such intense description. Remember, while acceptable, overuse can diminish its effectiveness. Alternatives include "a horrific spectacle" or "a ghastly sight" depending on the nuances you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a horrific spectacle

Replaces "scene" with "spectacle" and "dreadful" with "horrific", emphasizing the visual and shocking nature of the event.

a ghastly sight

Substitutes "scene" with "sight" and "dreadful" with "ghastly", highlighting the disturbing and unpleasant visual aspect.

an appalling situation

Replaces "scene" with "situation" and "dreadful" with "appalling", focusing on the morally offensive or shocking nature of the circumstances.

a harrowing experience

Substitutes "scene" with "experience" and "dreadful" with "harrowing", emphasizing the distress and suffering caused by the event.

a terrible ordeal

Replaces "scene" with "ordeal" and "dreadful" with "terrible", highlighting the difficult and painful nature of the event.

a gruesome spectacle

Replaces "scene" with "spectacle" and "dreadful" with "gruesome", emphasizing the repulsiveness and horror of what is seen.

a horrifying vision

Substitutes "scene" with "vision" and "dreadful" with "horrifying", focusing on the frightening mental image.

a bleak outlook

Replaces "scene" with "outlook" and "dreadful" with "bleak", focusing on the hopelessness and pessimism associated with a situation.

a dire state of affairs

Replaces "scene" with "state of affairs" and "dreadful" with "dire", emphasizing the seriousness and urgency of the situation.

a calamitous event

Substitutes "scene" with "event" and "dreadful" with "calamitous", highlighting the disastrous nature of the occurrence.

FAQs

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

You can use "a dreadful scene" to describe something shocking, horrifying, or extremely unpleasant. For instance: "The movie depicted "a dreadful scene" of war that left viewers speechless."

What are some alternatives to "a dreadful scene"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a horrific spectacle", "a ghastly sight", or "an appalling situation".

Is "a dreadful scene" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a dreadful scene" can be appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing serious or tragic events. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall message.

What makes "a dreadful scene" different from "a bad scene"?

"A bad scene" is a more general term for something unpleasant or unsuccessful. "A dreadful scene" implies a much stronger negative reaction, suggesting horror, shock, or deep distress.