a monstrous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a monstrous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is extremely large, ugly, or frightening, often in a figurative sense. Example: "The storm unleashed a monstrous wave that crashed against the shore."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Opinion

Books

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

What a monstrous symbol!

The New Yorker

Social Security is a monstrous lie.

The Economist

You really are a monstrous little boy".

The New York Times - Books

And that's a monstrous injustice.

The Guardian - Film

I have a monstrous colander.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You have a monstrous job".

The New York Times

That is a monstrous accusation.

The New York Times

This was a monstrous act".

The New York Times

For a monstrous complacency underlies this meeting.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This is a crime, a monstrous crime".

The New York Times

A monstrous baby threatens a cowering mother.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a monstrous", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to size, intensity, or negativity. Overuse can diminish its impact, so vary your vocabulary.

Common error

Avoid using "a monstrous" when a simpler adjective like "large" or "significant" suffices. Overusing the phrase can lead to hyperbole and weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a monstrous" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to emphasize its extreme qualities, whether in size, intensity, or negativity. As indicated by Ludwig, it effectively amplifies the characteristic being described.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Lifestyle

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Books

3%

Arts

3%

Sports

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a monstrous" functions as an adjective phrase used to intensify the characteristics of a noun, often implying extreme size, intensity, or negativity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and versatile, appearing most frequently in news and media contexts. While its usage is generally neutral, careful consideration should be given to the intended audience and the potential for hyperbole. Alternatives such as "enormous" or "outrageous" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an enormous

Focuses on the great size or extent of something.

a colossal

Emphasizes the immense size and impressiveness.

a gigantic

Highlights the extremely large size.

an appalling

Shifts the emphasis to something shocking or horrific.

an outrageous

Stresses the unacceptable or shocking nature.

a terrible

Highlights the negative and unpleasant aspects.

a dreadful

Similar to terrible, but can also imply fear.

an extreme

Focuses on something being at the furthest point from the norm.

an excessive

Highlights something that goes beyond what is normal or acceptable.

a heinous

Emphasizes the wickedness and reprehensibility.

FAQs

How can I use "a monstrous" in a sentence?

You can use "a monstrous" to describe something extremely large, ugly, or frightening. For example, "That was "a monstrous mistake"" or "They have "a monstrous greed and thirst"".

What are some alternatives to "a monstrous"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an enormous", "a colossal", or "an outrageous".

When is it appropriate to use "a monstrous"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the extreme size, intensity, or negative nature of something. However, avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

Is "a monstrous" formal or informal?

"A monstrous" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but consider your audience and the specific nuance you want to convey. In very formal writing, you might opt for a more precise or technical term. A phrase like "an extreme" may also apply.