absolute terror

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absolute terror" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of extreme fear or dread. Example: "As the thunderstorm approached, I felt an overwhelming sense of absolute terror wash over me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"It was absolute terror," he said later.

The New York Times

"It takes you back to a place of absolute terror".

The New York Times

Theo Ratliff had been an absolute terror against the Knicks.

The New York Times - Sports

Look at the absolute terror on his face at the fact he has lost Maradona.

The Guardian - Sport

I think of the noise and horror of its destruction and the absolute terror of that.

The Guardian - Opinion

At an elite Benedictine school in Ettal, in Bavaria, in the 1960s "absolute terror reigned", says one victim.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

As one top Eurocrat puts it, the thought of further referendums inspires "absolute, sheer terror" in Brussels.In this section Seconds away, round two Crocodile tears Discretion before valour A captain faces the storm Grey power Democracy games Don't tell the voters ReprintsThis terror may explain why so many EU leaders are rooting for Nicolas Sarkozy to win the French presidential election.

The Economist

Sheer fear, sheer terror.

Independent

It was at that point that I realised I had gone from a place of safety into an absolute position of fear and sheer terror".

BBC

Sheer terror.

The New York Times - Books

All of a sudden they heard their father say from behind them, "What do you boys think you're doing?" Charlie described the feeling as one of absolute cold terror — like having ice-water poured down his spine — to know that his father had been there behind him without his knowing, and it scared Ira so bad he swallowed the hunk of chewing tobacco he had in his mouth.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "absolute terror", consider the intensity you wish to convey. This phrase is best suited for situations involving extreme fear, life-threatening scenarios, or deeply traumatic experiences. For less intense situations, consider milder alternatives like "intense fear" or "great apprehension".

Common error

Avoid using "absolute terror" to describe everyday anxieties or mild inconveniences. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Choose vocabulary that accurately reflects the level of fear experienced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absolute terror" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state of intense fear. It combines the adjective "absolute", emphasizing the completeness or extremity, with the noun "terror". As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and is widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

11%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Huffington Post

8%

Independent

5%

The Guardian

25%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "absolute terror" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a state of extreme fear. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. It is most often found in news and media contexts, used to vividly convey intense fear in situations such as traumatic events or dangerous scenarios. While versatile, it's best to avoid using it for mild anxieties, opting for more moderate language in those cases. Consider alternatives like "sheer terror" or "intense fear" for slight variations in meaning or context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sheer terror

Emphasizes the unadulterated and intense nature of the terror.

pure terror

Stresses the unmixed and genuine quality of the terror.

unmitigated terror

Underscores the absence of any relief or lessening of the terror.

utter horror

Highlights the shocking and appalling aspect of the fear.

complete dread

Focuses on the anticipation and overwhelming sense of foreboding.

acute fear

Highlights the sharp and intense sensation of fear.

intense fear

A more general term for strong fear, lacking the extremity of "terror".

extreme fright

Emphasizes the sudden and startling nature of the fear.

overwhelming panic

Highlights the loss of control and frantic state caused by the fear.

consuming fear

Implies that the fear is all-encompassing and dominates one's thoughts.

FAQs

What does "absolute terror" mean?

"Absolute terror" refers to a state of extreme, overwhelming fear or dread. It signifies a level of fear that is intense and all-encompassing.

What can I say instead of "absolute terror"?

You can use alternatives like "sheer terror", "utter horror", or "complete dread" depending on the context.

Is "absolute terror" grammatically correct?

Yes, "absolute terror" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in English to describe extreme fear.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "absolute terror"?

The phrase is appropriate when describing situations that evoke intense fear, such as life-threatening events, traumatic experiences, or moments of extreme danger. Avoid using it for minor anxieties or inconveniences.