B1adjective2K

Horrid

UK //ˈhɒr.ɪd//US //ˈhɔːr.ɪd//

Definition

Something extremely unpleasant or terrible.

In simple words: Very bad or unpleasant.

Examples

  • The weather was horrid, with heavy rain and strong winds.
  • She described the movie as horrid, saying it was a waste of time.
  • After the horrid accident, everyone was in shock.
  • That horrid smell made me feel sick.
  • His horrid behavior at the party upset many guests.

Usage notes

Use 'horrid' to describe things that cause strong dislike or fear. It’s suitable in both spoken and written English, typically in informal to semi-formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'horrid' as 'horridly bad', like a horrible situation.

Collocations

  • horrid smell
  • horrid experience
  • horrid weather

Synonyms

  • terrible
  • awful
  • dreadful
  • bad
  • appalling

Antonyms

  • pleasant
  • delightful
  • enjoyable

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'horrific' which refers more to shocking events.
  • Overuse in formal writing, where 'terrible' might be preferred.
  • Using 'horrid' to describe people instead of actions or things.