create terror

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create terror" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to cause fear or panic. Example: The dictator's brutal regime created terror among the citizens, who lived in constant fear of being punished for any perceived disobedience.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Guimarães (2007) understands that the main objective of Terrorism is to create Terror due to determined motivations - that may be politico-social, or cultural-religious.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

The whole point of terrorism is to create terror, and FOX News is playing right into their twisted game.

Huffington Post

Online Jihadi activity is not the sole purview of Anwar al-Awlaki...whether it be ISIS or Al Qaeda, or any other goofy-sounding "martyrs brigade" with the word "Jihad" or Islamic" in it, every internet platform has been polluted for recruitment and incitement, martyrdom and glorification of attacks, and the exposition of violent attacks to create terror fear and admiration for terrorism.

Huffington Post

No, the main goal of terrorism is what its name suggests: to create terror.

Huffington Post

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Vice

There are so many better ways to create terror.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"Monopoly creates terror and bullying," he argues.

The Economist

"They created terror," he said.

The New York Times

"Pesce was a name that created terror in Calabria," Cerreti said.

The New Yorker

On the other, a handful of individuals who disrupted peace and created terror, killed and injured hundreds and caused ripples of panic across Europe.

Independent

It has created terror for girls so that, instead of getting to know how to respond to their appetites, they become fearful.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "create terror", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is it about causing widespread panic, or instilling a more localized sense of fear? Choosing synonyms like "instill fear" or "generate panic" can add precision.

Common error

Avoid using "create terror" gratuitously in contexts where the fear or panic is not truly significant. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create terror" functions as a verb phrase, where "create" is the transitive verb and "terror" is the direct object. It describes the action of causing or bringing about a state of intense fear. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "create terror" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to describe the act of instilling intense fear or panic. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and carries a clear meaning. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, often in relation to political violence or social unrest. While grammatically simple, choosing alternative phrases like "instill fear" or "generate panic" can provide greater nuance. When using "create terror", be mindful of potential overuse and ensure the context warrants the strong emotional impact the phrase conveys. Remember to consider the specific intent and effect of the action you're describing to ensure the most accurate and impactful language choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instill fear

Focuses on the act of implanting fear in someone.

generate panic

Highlights the production of widespread alarm.

induce fear

Emphasizes the causation of fear as a response.

spread fear

Implies the distribution of fear among a population.

provoke terror

Stresses the act of inciting terror.

spark fear

Suggests a sudden onset of fear.

foment fear

Indicates the deliberate stirring up of fear.

arouse terror

Focuses on awakening feelings of terror.

ignite fear

Conveys a forceful and rapid start of fear.

produce terror

Simple restatement emphasizing the making or building of terror

FAQs

How can I use "create terror" in a sentence?

You can use "create terror" to describe actions that cause widespread fear or panic. For instance: "The dictator's actions were intended to create terror among the population."

What are some alternatives to "create terror"?

Alternatives include "instill fear", "generate panic", or "induce fear", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "create terror"?

Yes, "create terror" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard verb-noun structure in English.

What's the difference between "create terror" and "spread fear"?

"Create terror" implies initiating a state of intense fear, while "spread fear" suggests distributing or disseminating fear that already exists. The former focuses on origin, the latter on propagation.