terrible deed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "terrible deed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is morally wrong or harmful, often in a serious or dramatic context. Example: "The news of the terrible deed shocked the entire community, leaving everyone in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Sadly, the terrible deed was done before Young could stop it.

The New Yorker

Because this is a metafiction where a beautiful narrative is supposed to atone for a terrible deed.

The Guardian - Books

Fittingly, the new monument was installed just days after Mr. Gibbs completed paperwork to sell the estate, an event he referred to as "signing the terrible deed".

The New York Times

If he did, what terrible deed had been committed by the pitcher who served up the home run to earn such celestial wrath (aside from playing for the wrong team)?

The New York Times

"Over and above catching and prosecuting the individual officers who committed the terrible deed, the inquiry must be expanded to examine afresh the whole culture of extrajudicial killings and other criminal activities within the police services".

The New York Times

So to learn that there had once been a Jew who, not because of any terrible deed, but merely because of what he wrote and thought, had actually been excommunicated – cast out from our people – that was impressive!

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Cross-examining Smith, Ian Murphy QC, for the prosecution, said: "I suggest to you that it was very easy for you to carry out this terrible, wicked deed of setting fire to the pushchair with a lighter".

Independent

Terrible deeds are replayed from different perspectives.

The New York Times

Let us hope and pray that no UK citizens have been involved in such terrible deeds.

Independent

I am intrigued by the idea that happiness can be a memorial of terrible deeds.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a revolutionary prosecutor and the head of Tehran's infamous Evin prison, he stood accused of terrible deeds.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about historical events or fictional narratives, use "terrible deed" to add emotional weight and convey the gravity of the action. For example: "The dictator's "terrible deed" plunged the nation into chaos."

Common error

Avoid using "terrible deed" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Its strong and dramatic tone is more suitable for serious or formal contexts. Consider using less intense alternatives like "bad mistake" or "wrong action" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrible deed" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as the subject or object of a sentence to denote an action considered morally wrong or extremely harmful. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "terrible deed" is a phrase used to describe a morally wrong or harmful action, often carrying a sense of gravity and condemnation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English. Its function is primarily as a noun phrase, and it is most frequently found in News & Media and Academic contexts. While grammatically sound, it's best reserved for serious or formal settings, avoiding overuse in casual contexts. Alternative phrases such as "atrocious act" or "heinous crime" can be used to convey similar meanings. The phrase is a common and effective way to express strong disapproval of a significant wrongdoing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

atrocious act

Focuses on the action being outrageously wicked or cruel.

heinous crime

Emphasizes the severity and wickedness of the criminal act.

grievous offense

Highlights the deeply offensive and harmful nature of the action.

unspeakable act

Suggests the action is too horrible to be described.

despicable act

Implies the action is worthy of contempt and disgust.

abominable crime

Stresses the repulsive and detestable nature of the crime.

shocking transgression

Highlights the surprising and disturbing violation of moral or legal boundaries.

outrageous violation

Focuses on the blatant and unacceptable breach of rules or norms.

monstrous action

Emphasizes the inhuman and cruel quality of the action.

shameful episode

Highlights the disgrace and dishonor associated with the event.

FAQs

How to use "terrible deed" in a sentence?

Use "terrible deed" to describe a morally wrong or harmful action, often in a serious or dramatic context. For instance, "The revelation of the "terrible deed" shook the foundation of their trust".

What can I say instead of "terrible deed"?

You can use alternatives like "atrocious act", "heinous crime", or "grievous offense" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "terrible deed" or "horrible deed"?

Both "terrible deed" and "horrible deed" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them depends on the specific nuance you want to express, with "terrible" suggesting a more profound sense of wrongness or gravity.

What's the difference between "terrible deed" and "bad action"?

"Terrible deed" implies a more serious and morally reprehensible action than "bad action". While a "bad action" might simply be a mistake or oversight, a "terrible deed" suggests deliberate wrongdoing with significant consequences.