filled with terror

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "filled with terror" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of extreme fear or dread experienced by a person or character in a narrative. Example: "As the storm raged outside, she sat in her darkened room, filled with terror at the thought of what might be lurking in the shadows."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

And now, with our city divided by warring factions, the skies above our heads are filled with terror too.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are currently 166 prisoners still at the Guantanamo facility which was filled with terror suspects in the wake of the September 2001 terror attacks.

Independent

The people come nearer and nearer, and as soon as they are about to attack, I wake up filled with terror".

The New York Times - Books

You know when you will die and by what means, and each minute of waiting until that moment must of course be filled with terror and dread.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's a costly process filled with terror to varying degrees — from being sure you've picked the right person to complying with labor, wage and tax laws that are easy to run afoul of.

The New York Times

At MSNBC they view it as rooting against death and destruction: the last thing the channel wants is more months like the last two, filled with terror bombings, tornadoes and plant accidents.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

A drama student goes to live with her great-aunt, whose estate is filled with terrors.

The New York Times - Books

Gene and Helen exchange a glance just then, and it is filled with naked terror.

The New York Times

Filled with white terror, my mind drifted to thoughts of the furious far-left organising to torture me night after night on national TV.

The Guardian

From the moment I heard Naira was dead, from that very second, I was filled with a terror that my brother might be taken from me as suddenly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Face the fear is well-meant advice, but when it's time to bite the bullet you can be filled with such terror that backing out seems like the only logical option.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "filled with terror", consider the intensity of the emotion you wish to convey. This phrase is best suited for situations where the fear is profound and deeply affecting.

Common error

Avoid using "filled with terror" to describe mild anxiety or simple nervousness. This phrase implies a severe emotional state, so ensure the context warrants such strong language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "filled with terror" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun (often a person or place) to indicate a state of extreme fear or dread. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "filled with terror" is a descriptive term indicating a state of intense fear, commonly used in news, media, and literature. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its primary function is to convey the severity of fear experienced by individuals or present in certain situations. While versatile, it is most appropriate for scenarios involving extreme dread, distinguishing it from milder forms of anxiety. Alternatives like "overwhelmed by terror" or "consumed by dread" offer similar semantic weight, tailored to specific nuances. By understanding its function and appropriate context, writers can effectively use "filled with terror" to evoke a strong emotional response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overwhelmed by terror

Focuses on the feeling of being completely taken over by terror.

consumed by dread

Highlights the all-encompassing nature of the fear.

gripped by fear

Suggests a sudden and forceful onset of terror.

stricken with panic

Emphasizes the abrupt and overwhelming nature of the terror.

paralyzed by fear

Focuses on the immobilizing effect of intense terror.

in a state of fear

Describes a continuous condition of being terrorized.

living in fear

Implies a prolonged period of being constantly afraid.

haunted by fear

Suggests a recurring and persistent feeling of terror.

besieged by anxiety

Conveys a sense of being surrounded and attacked by fear.

suffering from terror

Focuses on the negative impact and consequences of terror.

FAQs

How can I use "filled with terror" in a sentence?

Use "filled with terror" to describe a state of intense fear. For example, "The dark alleyway left her "filled with terror"."

What are some alternatives to "filled with terror"?

Alternatives include "overwhelmed by terror", "consumed by dread", or "gripped by fear". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "filled with terror" in formal writing?

Yes, "filled with terror" is appropriate for formal writing when the context involves extreme fear or dread. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "filled with fear" and "filled with terror"?

"Filled with fear" describes a general state of being afraid, while "filled with terror" implies a much more intense and overwhelming experience of fear. Terror suggests a higher degree of alarm and dread.