terrifying time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "terrifying time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period that is filled with fear or anxiety, often due to challenging circumstances or events. Example: "The pandemic was a terrifying time for many families, as they faced uncertainty and health risks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

It was a helpless and terrifying time.

The New York Times

It was a terrifying time.

The New York Times

It was an appalling and terrifying time for her.

Independent

It was a horrible time, a terrifying time.

The Guardian - Sport

This is the great art of our terrifying time.

The Guardian - Arts

The stores were empty, and it was a terrifying time to live.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"It seems spectacularly necessary in these terrifying times," she said.

The New York Times

"We know we're facing dark and terrible, terrifying times.

The New York Times

Did these terrifying times prompt him to offer a cure that was worse than the disease?

The Economist

Sometimes I believe the only way to describe our terrifying times is by writing crime fiction.

Independent

If we really strip this back, it's actually just a depressing insight into the terrifying times in which we're living.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "terrifying time", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is causing the fear. Providing specific details about the events or circumstances will enhance the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "terrifying time" lightly. Save it for truly serious situations to prevent diluting its impact. Using it for minor inconveniences diminishes its effectiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "terrifying time" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "terrifying" modifies the noun "time". It describes a specific period characterized by intense fear or anxiety. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use in describing historical events and personal experiences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "terrifying time" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a period filled with fear and anxiety. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for a variety of contexts, with a strong presence in news and media. When using this phrase, clarity and context are essential to effectively convey the intended emotional impact. While synonyms like "frightening period" or "horrific experience" offer alternatives, "terrifying time" remains a powerful and direct way to communicate the experience of fear during a specific period.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

horrifying time

Replaces "terrifying" with a synonym of similar intensity.

frightening period

Substitutes "terrifying" with "frightening" and "time" with "period", maintaining a similar sense of fear.

dreadful era

Uses "dreadful" to convey intense fear and "era" to denote a longer span of time.

horrific experience

Shifts the focus to a specific experience within a time frame, emphasizing the horror.

traumatic moment

Highlights the emotional trauma associated with a particular instant.

scary situation

Replaces the time element with a broader sense of a "scary situation".

alarming circumstances

Focuses on the worrying circumstances that define the period.

precarious juncture

Emphasizes the instability and potential danger of a specific point in time.

anxious moment

Conveys the worry and unease associated with a particular point in time.

distressing chapter

Describes the period as a particularly upsetting episode or phase.

FAQs

How can I use "terrifying time" in a sentence?

You can use "terrifying time" to describe periods marked by fear or anxiety. For example: "The war was a "terrifying time" for many families."

What are some alternatives to "terrifying time"?

Alternatives include "frightening period", "dreadful era", or "horrific experience", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "terrifying time"?

Yes, "terrifying time" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to describe an era or period filled with fear.

What's the difference between "terrifying time" and "terrible time"?

"Terrifying time" emphasizes the fear and anxiety experienced, while "terrible time" focuses more broadly on unpleasantness or hardship. The choice depends on which aspect you want to highlight.