terrifying situation

USAGE SUMMARY

"terrifying situation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a situation that is frightening or alarming. For example, "The power outage created a terrifying situation for the survivors of the natural disaster."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Soon, a terrifying situation unfolds.

The Guardian - Film

David showed outstanding bravery in what was a terrifying situation.

The Guardian

The first thing Carol knew of her terrifying situation was disco music playing in the operating theatre.

Independent

Then there's the rather endearing Panikos, the Georgiou son-in-law, trying to pull his weight and protect his wife and children in an unthinkably terrifying situation.

Independent

Carey's terrifying situation was a variation on that era's preoccupation with man's identity amid the lonely crowd and threat of the bomb.

The Guardian - Books

As Michael and Ana get closer, war breaks out and the three find themselves in the middle of a terrifying situation.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Stephen added that "Still, she's been in more terrifying situations – actually, she's only been in terrifying situations.

Wikipedia

I've thrown myself into terrifying situations that give me the opportunity to represent my charity nationally and internationally.

The Guardian

The truth hit me: children need to read about terrifying situations in order to empathize with characters who endure those situations.

The New York Times

But despite individual instances that come to mind — the tragic Who concert in Cincinnati in 1979, say — studies since the early 1980s have shown that groups of people generally don't move as a collective front, and they aren't all crazed with terror, even in terrifying situations.

The New York Times - Magazine

The show will include "thrills, chills and laughter as PewDiePie encounters terrifying situations inspired by his favourite video games".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "terrifying situation", provide specific details to enhance the reader's understanding of the fear and urgency involved. Use vivid language and sensory details to create a more impactful narrative.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on the phrase "terrifying situation". Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "frightening scenario" or "alarming event" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrifying situation" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "terrifying" modifies the noun "situation". It's commonly used to describe scenarios that evoke intense fear or alarm. Ludwig confirms its correct usage and prevalence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terrifying situation" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression to describe events that evoke intense fear. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears frequently in news media, and business contexts, as well as general discussions. While its register is generally neutral, consider using synonyms like "dire circumstances" for formal settings or "frightening scenario" to add vivid details for enhanced impact. To avoid overuse, vary your vocabulary with alternatives like "alarming event" or "horrifying ordeal".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

frightening scenario

Focuses on the imaginative aspect of fear, differing from the immediacy of a situation.

alarming event

Emphasizes the signal or warning aspect of the event, rather than the feeling of terror.

horrifying ordeal

Highlights the prolonged and painful nature of the experience.

dreadful circumstance

Stresses the negative and unfortunate nature of the situation.

dire circumstances

Emphasizes the urgency and severity of the conditions.

perilous predicament

Highlights the danger and difficulty of the situation.

grave crisis

Focuses on the seriousness and potential consequences of the event.

nightmarish state of affairs

Emphasizes the unreal and disturbing quality of the situation.

precarious position

Highlights the instability and vulnerability of the circumstances.

critical juncture

Focuses on the decisive and potentially dangerous point in time.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "terrifying situation" in a sentence?

To effectively use "terrifying situation", provide context that illustrates the nature and intensity of the fear involved. For example, "Being trapped in the burning building was a truly "terrifying situation"".

What are some alternatives to "terrifying situation"?

Some alternatives include "frightening scenario", "alarming event", or "horrifying ordeal". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "terrifying situation" formal or informal?

"Terrifying situation" is appropriate for both neutral and informal contexts. However, in formal or professional writing, consider using alternatives like "dire circumstances" to maintain a professional tone.

What makes a situation qualify as a "terrifying situation"?

A "terrifying situation" is characterized by a high degree of fear, danger, or distress. It often involves a perceived threat to one's safety, well-being, or mental state. The intensity of the fear experienced distinguishes it from merely unpleasant or challenging circumstances.