German word

schrecklich

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʃʁɛklɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveterrible

Example

Das ist ein schreckliches Problem.

That is a terrible problem.

Illustration for schrecklich (terrible)

More examples

Nach dem Sturm war die Straße in schrecklichem Zustand.

After the storm, the street was in terrible condition.

Core concept

A disturbing problem or event that feels frighteningly bad.

Common phrases

  • schreckliches Geräusch

    terrible noise

  • schreckliche Situation

    terrible situation

Similar words

schlimm: Serious and bad because it creates harmful consequences or a real problem.
furchtbar: Horribly unpleasant or frightening on an emotional level.

Definition in German

Etwas als sehr schlimm oder von schlechter Qualität beurteilt.

Word origin

Schrecklich is formed from Schreck, meaning fright, and -lich, an adjective-forming suffix; its meaning developed from frightening to horrible or terrible.

Usage tips

  • Schrecklich can also function as an adverb before adjectives or verbs, as in schrecklich teuer, meaning terribly expensive.

Other meanings

  • frighteningadjective
  • terriblyadverb

Opposites

Related words

  • erschrecktstartledadjective

Word lists with this word