a terrible scene

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a terrible scene" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is distressing, shocking, or unpleasant, often in the context of a narrative or report. Example: "The movie depicted a terrible scene that left the audience in shock and disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

It's a terrible scene.

The New York Times

It was a terrible scene.

The New York Times

"It had transcended into a terrible scene.

The New York Times

Many were trapped inside, it was a terrible scene".

The Guardian

After ten minutes, the police pried open the door with a blowtorch and a crowbar to find a terrible scene.

The New Yorker

There's a terrible scene in the film which gives its confusions away on a plate.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Edwards said that he couldn't yet speak to "the criminal investigation"—the F.B.I. was taking charge of that but gave more glimpses of a chaotic, terrible scene that, he noted, could have been worse.

The New Yorker

You'll remember Rana Plaza because news crews surrounded the terrible scene for a few days.

The Guardian

"It was a terrible Polanski scene," Hitchens said.

The New Yorker

And There Will Be Blood should see an internal release in a few days (there's already a terrible 720p scene rip).

TechCrunch

"One thing that really, really upsets circus people all over the world is when people say things like, 'Oh, it was a terrible, wild scene over there.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events in journalistic or narrative writing, use "a terrible scene" to convey the severity and emotional impact of a situation. Provide specific details to enhance the reader's understanding of why the scene is considered "terrible".

Common error

Avoid stacking multiple emotional adjectives to describe the scene. Instead of saying "a truly awful and terrible scene", focus on vivid descriptions that allow the reader to infer the severity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a terrible scene" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a situation or event characterized by extreme unpleasantness, distress, or shock. Ludwig examples showcase its use in news reports and personal narratives.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a terrible scene" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a distressing or shocking situation. According to Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, primarily used in news and media contexts to convey the severity and emotional impact of an event. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's important to avoid overuse of emotional adjectives and focus on vivid descriptions. Alternatives such as "a dreadful sight" or "a horrific spectacle" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dreadful sight

Focuses more on the visual aspect and the negative emotional impact of what is seen.

a horrific spectacle

Emphasizes the shocking and disturbing nature of the event or situation.

an awful situation

Shifts the focus to the overall circumstances being unpleasant or difficult.

a gruesome tableau

Highlights the macabre and often staged-like quality of the scene.

a distressing episode

Focuses on the event as a single occurrence that causes emotional upset.

a calamitous event

Stresses the disastrous and unfortunate nature of what happened.

a tragic circumstance

Highlights the sadness and loss associated with the situation.

a wretched affair

Indicates a feeling of disgust and moral repugnance towards the situation.

a disastrous situation

Emphasizes the catastrophic nature of the scene and its implications.

a harrowing experience

Highlights the intensely distressing and traumatic nature of the event.

FAQs

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

You can use "a terrible scene" to describe an event or situation that is extremely unpleasant or shocking. For example, "The aftermath of the accident was "a terrible scene", with debris scattered everywhere."

What can I say instead of "a terrible scene"?

You can use alternatives like "a horrific sight", "a gruesome spectacle", or "a dreadful situation" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a terrible scene" in formal writing?

Yes, "a terrible scene" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when reporting or describing events that are distressing or shocking. However, ensure that the tone remains objective and avoids excessive emotional language.

What's the difference between "a terrible scene" and "a tragic event"?

"A terrible scene" describes the immediate visual or sensory impact of something distressing, while "a tragic event" refers to an occurrence characterized by great sadness and loss.