B2noun2K

Monster

UK /["/ˈmɒnstə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈmɑːnstər/"]/

Definition

(in stories) an imaginary creature that is very large, ugly and frightening

In simple words: A frightening creature that is not real.

Examples

  • The monster in the story was described as a giant with sharp claws.
  • She was afraid the monster under her bed would come out at night.
  • The company’s new product was a monster of a machine, powerful but difficult to handle.
  • He became a monster at work, always demanding and unreasonable.
  • The city was hit by a monster storm, causing severe damage.
  • That player is a monster on the field, dominating every game.

Usage notes

Used in both casual and formal contexts. Often appears in stories, movies, or conversations about fears. Rarely used in serious discussions outside of metaphorical contexts.

Grammar pattern

countable noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'monstrous' huge shadow lurking in your closet.

Collocations

  • big
  • giant
  • huge
  • create
  • battle
  • defeat
  • attack somebody/​something
  • devour somebody/​something
  • kill somebody/​something
  • big
  • giant
  • huge
  • create
  • battle
  • defeat
  • attack somebody/​something
  • devour somebody/​something
  • kill somebody/​something
  • big
  • giant
  • huge
  • create
  • battle
  • defeat
  • attack somebody/​something
  • devour somebody/​something
  • kill somebody/​something

Synonyms

  • creature
  • beast
  • fiend
  • ogre
  • goblin

Antonyms

  • angel
  • hero
  • saint

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'beast' which can imply a real animal.
  • Using 'monsters' instead of 'monster' when referring to one.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'monsta' which can sound too casual.