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B1 Noun, Verb #28 le plus courant 13 min de lecture

thrill

Top 28

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces thrill en 30 secondes

Explication thrill in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'thrill' is a word you might not use often, but it is good to know for describing very big feelings. Think of it as 'super happy' or 'very excited.' When you go on a fast ride at a park, that feeling in your stomach is a thrill. You can say 'I feel a thrill' or 'It is a thrill.' It is a special word for a special feeling. It is more than just 'happy.' It is like when you get a big surprise gift and your heart beats fast. You might see it in simple stories about adventures or theme parks. Just remember: Thrill = Big, fast excitement.

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For A2 learners, 'thrill' is a useful noun to describe exciting experiences. You might use it when talking about hobbies or travel. For example, 'The thrill of flying is amazing.' You are also learning that it can be a verb. You might hear someone say, 'I was thrilled to meet you.' This is a polite and very positive way to say you were very happy. It's a step up from 'very glad.' You can use it in letters or emails to show you are enthusiastic. Think of it as a way to add more energy to your English sentences when 'happy' isn't strong enough.

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At the B1 level, you should start using 'thrill' more naturally in both its noun and verb forms. You understand that a 'thrill' is a sudden feeling of excitement. You can use phrases like 'the thrill of the chase' or 'thrill-seeker.' You also know the difference between 'thrilling' (the movie was thrilling) and 'thrilled' (I was thrilled). This is the level where you use 'thrill' to describe not just physical actions, but also emotional successes, like passing an exam or getting a new job. It's about that 'spark' of joy that comes from achieving something or experiencing something new and different.

B2 learners should appreciate the nuances of 'thrill.' You can use it to describe complex emotions where excitement and fear mix. You might talk about the 'vicarious thrill' of watching someone else do something dangerous. You understand that 'thrill' can be used in professional contexts to show high-level engagement (e.g., 'We are thrilled to partner with your firm'). You are also familiar with idioms like 'thrilled to bits.' At this level, you can use the word to describe the 'frisson' of a performance or the 'cheap thrills' of gossip, showing you understand the word's broader social and psychological implications.

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At the C1 level, 'thrill' becomes a tool for precise emotional description. You can use it to describe the physiological effects of an experience—the way a thrill 'courses through the veins' or 'pierces the mundane.' You understand its etymological roots and how that 'piercing' quality applies to literature and art. You can distinguish between a 'thrill,' an 'exhilaration,' and a 'euphoria' with ease. You might use the verb 'thrill' in more abstract ways, such as 'the idea thrilled her imagination.' Your usage is sophisticated, recognizing that a thrill can be both a physical sensation and a profound intellectual or spiritual awakening.

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For C2 speakers, 'thrill' is a versatile word used with complete mastery of register and connotation. You might use it to critique a piece of literature, noting that it 'lacks the requisite thrill of suspense,' or use it in a philosophical discussion about the human desire for sensation. You are comfortable with all idiomatic uses and can even play with the word's meaning in creative writing. You understand the subtle difference between a 'thrill' and a 'shiver of apprehension.' At this level, the word is part of a rich tapestry of vocabulary used to describe the most intense and fleeting aspects of the human experience with absolute precision.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

thrill en 30 secondes

A thrill is a sudden, sharp feeling of excitement, often physical, like a shiver or a racing heart, caused by something adventurous or surprising.
As a verb, 'to thrill' means to cause someone to feel intense excitement. It is commonly used in the passive form 'to be thrilled'.
The word is central to genres like 'thrillers' and activities like 'thrill rides,' where the goal is to create a safe sense of danger.
Common collocations include 'thrill of the chase,' 'thrill-seeker,' and 'cheap thrill,' each describing different levels and types of intense excitement.

The word thrill is a multifaceted term that captures the essence of high-intensity emotional experiences. At its core, it refers to a sudden, powerful surge of excitement, often accompanied by a physical sensation like a shiver or a racing heart. This isn't just a mild feeling of happiness; it is the sharp, electric spark you feel when something unexpected, adventurous, or slightly dangerous occurs. People use this word to describe the peak moments of life—the drop of a roller coaster, the moment a secret is revealed, or the instant an athlete crosses the finish line. It bridges the gap between fear and joy, often existing in that sweet spot where we feel most alive because our senses are heightened.

Physical Manifestation: A thrill often starts in the chest or the spine, manifesting as a 'frisson' or a tingling sensation that travels through the limbs. It is the body's physiological response to dopamine and adrenaline.

The skydiver felt a massive thrill as she stepped out of the plane into the open air.

In a social context, 'thrill' is frequently used to describe the excitement of new experiences. When we say someone is a 'thrill-seeker,' we are identifying a personality trait characterized by the pursuit of novel and intense sensations. This could range from extreme sports to high-stakes gambling or even the intellectual thrill of solving a complex scientific mystery. The word carries a positive connotation of vitality and vigor, suggesting that the person is actively engaging with the world in a way that challenges their comfort zone.

The Emotional Spectrum: While usually positive, a thrill can sometimes be 'cheap'—referring to a superficial or fleeting excitement that lacks depth or long-term value, such as gossip or minor rule-breaking.

It thrills me to see my students finally grasp a difficult concept after weeks of hard work.

Historically, the word evolved from Old English roots meaning 'to pierce.' This etymology is still felt today; a thrill 'pierces' through the mundane routine of daily life, cutting through boredom to deliver a sharp, memorable impact. When you use this word, you are signaling that the experience was not just 'good' or 'fun,' but that it had a visceral, penetrating quality that left an impression on your psyche. It is the language of passion and intensity.

Cultural Usage: In modern media, 'thrillers' are a specific genre of film and literature designed to keep the audience in a constant state of suspense and excitement, proving how central this emotion is to our entertainment.

There is no thrill quite like standing on the stage and hearing the roar of the crowd for the first time.

Ultimately, 'thrill' is about the electricity of the present moment. It is the word we reach for when we want to describe the peak of an experience, whether that is the 'thrill of victory' in sports or the 'thrill of the chase' in romance or business. It implies a level of engagement that is total and all-consuming, making it one of the most vibrant words in the English vocabulary for describing human emotion and reaction to the extraordinary.

Using 'thrill' correctly requires understanding its dual nature as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it often follows the pattern 'the thrill of [activity]' or 'give someone a thrill.' As a verb, it is typically used in the active voice to describe what an event does to a person, or in the passive voice ('to be thrilled') to describe a person's state of mind. Mastering these patterns allows you to convey varying degrees of intensity and focus within your narrative or conversation.

Noun Patterns: Commonly used with adjectives: 'a sudden thrill,' 'a cheap thrill,' 'the ultimate thrill.' It often acts as the subject or the direct object in a sentence.

The thrill of the unknown is what drives many explorers to risk their lives in the deep ocean.

When using 'thrill' as a verb, it is often transitive, meaning it takes an object. You thrill an audience, or a performance thrills the critics. It suggests a proactive impact on others. In its intransitive form, it is less common but can describe a feeling vibrating through something, such as 'a voice thrilling with emotion.' However, for most learners, focusing on the transitive use and the participial adjectives ('thrilling' and 'thrilled') is the most effective path to fluency.

Verb Usage: 'To thrill' can be used in the present tense for general truths or the past tense for specific events. Example: 'The news thrilled the entire family.'

The singer's powerful high note thrilled the listeners, who immediately broke into applause.

In more advanced writing, 'thrill' can be used to describe a physical sensation passing through a part of the body. You might say 'a thrill of fear ran down his spine.' This personification of the emotion adds a literary quality to your descriptions, making them more vivid and sensory. It moves the word beyond a simple label for an emotion and turns it into a dynamic force within the narrative.

Prepositional Pairs: We are thrilled 'by' a result, thrilled 'at' the prospect of something, or thrilled 'to' do something. Each preposition changes the focus slightly.

I would be thrilled to accept your invitation to the gala next Saturday evening.

Finally, consider the intensity. 'Thrill' is a strong word. If you use it for mundane tasks like 'I was thrilled to buy milk,' it might sound sarcastic or overly dramatic. Reserve it for genuine excitement, significant achievements, or truly stimulating events to ensure your tone matches your meaning. In professional settings, 'thrilled' is a great way to show high-level enthusiasm for a project or partnership without sounding unprofessional.

You will encounter 'thrill' in a variety of high-energy environments. One of the most common places is in the world of sports and competition. Commentators often speak of the 'thrill of victory,' contrasting it with the 'agony of defeat.' This usage highlights the emotional peaks that come with winning a hard-fought contest. In this context, 'thrill' represents the culmination of effort, the release of tension, and the pure joy of success. It is a staple of sports journalism and motivational speaking.

Entertainment & Media: Movie trailers and book blurbs use 'thrilling' as a key marketing term. A 'thriller' is a genre specifically designed to evoke this emotion through suspense and action.

'The latest blockbuster is a non-stop thrill ride from start to finish!'

Theme parks are another primary location for this word. Marketing for roller coasters and 'thrill rides' focuses heavily on the physical sensation of excitement and fear. Here, 'thrill' is sold as a commodity—an experience you can purchase. You'll see signs for 'Thrill Seekers Only' or descriptions of rides that 'thrill and chill.' This usage is very literal, focusing on the adrenaline rush and the physical response of the body to speed and height.

Personal Anecdotes: In everyday conversation, people use 'thrilled' to express great happiness about good news. 'I'm thrilled for you!' is a common way to congratulate someone on a promotion or engagement.

She got a real thrill out of seeing her name in the credits of the film.

You will also hear 'thrill' in the context of hobbies and passions. A birdwatcher might talk about the 'thrill' of spotting a rare species, or a collector might describe the 'thrill of the find' when they discover a valuable item at a flea market. This demonstrates that 'thrill' isn't just for high-octane activities; it can also apply to the quiet, intense satisfaction of achieving a personal goal or making a discovery. It is about the emotional payoff of a pursuit.

Business and Professionalism: In formal emails, 'I would be thrilled to...' is a polite but high-energy way to express interest in an opportunity, showing more enthusiasm than 'I would be happy to...'

The company was thrilled to announce their record-breaking quarterly profits.

Finally, 'thrill' appears in literature and poetry to describe romantic or spiritual awakening. The 'thrill of a first kiss' or the 'thrill of a divine revelation' uses the word to bridge the physical and the metaphysical. It suggests a moment where the soul and the body are perfectly aligned in a state of heightened awareness. Whether in a pop song, a business email, or a classic novel, 'thrill' remains the go-to word for describing the electricity of life.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'thrill' is confusing the adjective forms: 'thrilling' and 'thrilled.' This is a classic 'ed/ing' adjective error. 'Thrilling' describes the thing that causes the emotion (the cause), while 'thrilled' describes the person who feels the emotion (the receiver). Saying 'I am very thrilling' actually means you are an exciting person to be around, which might not be what you intended to say if you were trying to express your own excitement!

The 'ed' vs 'ing' Trap: Correct: 'The race was thrilling.' (Cause) / 'The fans were thrilled.' (Feeling). Incorrect: 'The fans were thrilling.' (Unless they were performing for others).

Don't say: 'It was a thrilled experience.' Say: 'It was a thrilling experience.'

Another common error involves the preposition used after the adjective 'thrilled.' While 'thrilled with' is very common (e.g., 'thrilled with the gift'), learners often use 'thrilled about' or 'thrilled for' interchangeably. While 'thrilled for' is used when you are happy for someone else ('I'm thrilled for you'), 'thrilled about' is used for events. Using the wrong preposition can sometimes make the sentence sound slightly unnatural to a native speaker, though the meaning is usually still clear.

Overuse and Hyperbole: Using 'thrill' for very small things can sound sarcastic. If you say you are 'thrilled' that the bus arrived on time, people might think you are being ironic because the emotion is too big for the event.

Avoid: 'I got a thrill from eating a piece of toast.' (Unless it was the best toast in history).

Confusion with similar-sounding words like 'drill' or 'thrill' (as in 'trill') can also occur. A 'trill' is a musical term for a rapid alternation between two notes, while a 'drill' is a tool or a repetitive exercise. While these are phonetically similar, their meanings are entirely unrelated. Pay close attention to the 'th' sound at the beginning of 'thrill' to ensure clear communication. Mispronouncing it as 'trill' or 'drill' can lead to significant confusion in context.

Noun vs Verb Confusion: Sometimes learners try to use 'thrill' as a verb when they should use 'excite.' While similar, 'thrill' is more intense. 'The movie thrilled me' is stronger than 'The movie excited me.'

Correct: 'The thrill of the chase.' Incorrect: 'The thrilling of the chase.'

Lastly, be careful with the idiom 'thrilled to bits.' This is a very British expression. While Americans will understand it, they might not use it themselves, preferring 'thrilled to pieces' or just 'so thrilled.' Using regional idioms correctly is a sign of high-level fluency, but using them in the wrong region can sometimes sound slightly 'off' or like you are trying too hard to mimic a specific accent.

While 'thrill' is a powerful word, English offers many alternatives that can help you be more precise about the *type* of excitement you are describing. Depending on whether the feeling is physical, intellectual, or purely emotional, you might choose a different term to better capture the nuance of the situation. Understanding these synonyms allows you to avoid repetition and add color to your writing and speech.

Exhilaration: This is perhaps the closest synonym. It implies a feeling of being very happy, animated, and full of energy. It is often used for physical activities like skiing or running. It feels 'lighter' and more 'airy' than a thrill.

The exhilaration of the mountain air made him feel ten years younger.

'Excitement' is the most general term. It can describe anything from a child waiting for a birthday party to the feeling before a big game. 'Thrill' is a subset of excitement—it is excitement with an edge of intensity or danger. If excitement is a steady flame, a thrill is a sudden spark. Use 'excitement' for longer-lasting, less intense feelings, and 'thrill' for the sharp, peak moments.

Frisson: A more literary or sophisticated term, 'frisson' specifically refers to the physical shiver of excitement or fear. It is often used in the context of art, music, or a spooky story.

A frisson of anticipation ran through the audience as the lights dimmed.

'Stimulation' is a more clinical or intellectual term. It describes something that arouses interest or activity. While a thrill is an emotional reaction, stimulation is the process of being engaged. You might find a lecture 'stimulating' without necessarily finding it 'thrilling.' Use 'stimulation' when discussing the mind or the senses in a more detached or academic way.

Euphoria: This describes an intense state of transcendence or overwhelming happiness. It is stronger than a thrill and usually lasts longer. It is often used in medical or psychological contexts, or to describe extreme joy.

Winning the championship brought a sense of euphoria that lasted for weeks.

In summary, 'thrill' is your best choice for sharp, sudden, and intense excitement. Use 'exhilaration' for outdoor or physical joy, 'excitement' for general anticipation, 'frisson' for a physical shiver of emotion, and 'kick' for informal enjoyment. By varying your vocabulary, you can more accurately describe the complex landscape of human feelings.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'thrill' is related to the word 'nostril.' A 'nostril' was originally a 'nose-thirl,' or a hole pierced in the nose!

Guide de prononciation

UK /θrɪl/

US /θrɪl/

Single syllable, so the stress is on the entire word.

Rime avec

Bill Fill Hill Mill Pill Skill Still Will

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'th' as 't' (trill).
Pronouncing 'th' as 'd' (drill).
Using a long 'ee' sound (threel).
Swallowing the 'l' sound at the end.
Confusing it with 'frill' (starting with an 'f').

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize in context, especially in entertainment news.

Écriture 4/5

Requires care with 'ed/ing' endings and prepositions.

Expression orale 4/5

The 'th' sound can be tricky for non-native speakers.

Écoute 3/5

Distinctive sound, though can be confused with 'drill'.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Excited Happy Feel Ride Fast

Apprends ensuite

Exhilaration Frisson Suspense Adrenaline Anticipation

Avancé

Visceral Vicarious Autonomic Euphoria Stimulus

Grammaire à connaître

Participial Adjectives

The thrilling (active) game made the thrilled (passive) fans cheer.

Transitive Verbs

The magician's trick thrilled (verb) the audience (object).

Noun Phrases with 'of'

The thrill of (preposition) discovery (noun) drives science.

Infinitive after Adjectives

I am thrilled to (infinitive marker) meet (verb) you.

Prepositional Collocations

She was thrilled with (preposition) her new job.

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Exemples par niveau

The fast car gave me a thrill.

The fast car made me feel very excited.

Noun used as a direct object.

It is a thrill to see the ocean.

Seeing the ocean is very exciting.

Noun used in an 'It is a...' structure.

I feel a thrill on the swing.

I feel excited when I swing high.

Noun following the verb 'feel'.

The big dog gave him a thrill.

The big dog made him feel a mix of fear and excitement.

Noun used with the verb 'give'.

Is it a thrill to fly?

Is flying very exciting?

Question form using the noun.

The game was a thrill.

The game was very exciting.

Noun used as a subject complement.

I want a thrill today.

I want to do something exciting today.

Noun as the object of 'want'.

The circus is a thrill.

The circus is very exciting.

Simple noun usage.

I was thrilled to get your letter.

I was very happy to receive your letter.

Past participle 'thrilled' used as an adjective.

The thrill of the ride was great.

The excitement of the ride was very good.

Noun phrase 'The thrill of...'.

She was thrilled with her new bike.

She was very happy with her new bicycle.

Adjective 'thrilled' followed by 'with'.

It thrills me to help people.

Helping people makes me feel very excited and happy.

Verb 'thrills' in the present simple.

Are you thrilled about the trip?

Are you very excited about the journey?

Adjective 'thrilled' followed by 'about'.

The movie gave us a real thrill.

The movie made us feel very excited.

Noun used with 'real' for emphasis.

He felt a thrill of joy.

He felt a sudden surge of happiness.

Noun phrase 'thrill of joy'.

They were thrilled to win the game.

They were very happy to win the match.

Adjective 'thrilled' followed by an infinitive.

The roller coaster provided a huge thrill for the kids.

The ride gave the children a lot of excitement.

Noun as the object of 'provided'.

I'm thrilled to bits with my exam results.

I am extremely happy with my test scores.

Idiomatic expression 'thrilled to bits'.

The news of the engagement thrilled the whole family.

The announcement of the wedding made everyone very happy.

Transitive verb in the past tense.

He is a real thrill-seeker who loves skydiving.

He is someone who looks for exciting and dangerous activities.

Compound noun 'thrill-seeker'.

There's no thrill like traveling to a new country.

Nothing is as exciting as visiting a place you've never been.

Negative comparison 'There's no thrill like...'.

The audience was thrilled by the magician's performance.

The people watching were very excited by the magic tricks.

Passive voice 'was thrilled by'.

She felt a thrill of anticipation before the concert started.

She felt excited while waiting for the music to begin.

Noun 'thrill' followed by 'of anticipation'.

It was a thrilling experience to swim with dolphins.

Swimming with dolphins was a very exciting thing to do.

Participial adjective 'thrilling'.

The thrill of the chase is often better than the catch.

The excitement of pursuing something is often better than getting it.

Proverbial use of the noun phrase.

The explorers were thrilled at the prospect of finding the lost city.

The explorers were very excited about the possibility of discovery.

Adjective 'thrilled' followed by 'at the prospect of'.

The movie is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing.

The film is a suspenseful story that is hard to predict.

Noun 'thriller' referring to a genre.

She thrilled the crowd with her virtuosic violin solo.

She made the audience very excited with her amazing music.

Transitive verb used to describe an artistic effect.

He admitted he did it just for the cheap thrill of breaking the rules.

He said he did it for a small, unimportant bit of excitement.

Noun phrase 'cheap thrill'.

The venture capitalist was thrilled by the startup's potential.

The investor was very excited about the new company's future.

Passive voice in a professional context.

A thrill of fear shot through him as he heard the floorboard creak.

He felt a sudden, sharp feeling of being scared.

Noun 'thrill' as the subject of a vivid action verb 'shot'.

The new theme park features several world-class thrill rides.

The park has many very exciting and scary attractions.

Compound noun 'thrill rides'.

The novel fails to provide the visceral thrill one expects from the genre.

The book doesn't give the deep, physical excitement usually found in such stories.

Noun modified by the sophisticated adjective 'visceral'.

There is a certain thrill in intellectual discovery that is hard to replicate.

Finding out something new with your mind is a unique kind of excitement.

Abstract use of the noun in a formal observation.

Her voice thrilled with a passion that moved everyone in the room.

Her voice vibrated with an intense emotion that affected everyone.

Intransitive verb usage meaning 'to vibrate or quiver'.

He sought the vicarious thrill of adventure through the stories of others.

He enjoyed the excitement of adventure by listening to other people's tales.

Noun modified by 'vicarious', a C1-level adjective.

The conductor's interpretation of the symphony thrilled even the most cynical critics.

The way the leader played the music excited even the hardest judges.

Transitive verb in a high-register artistic context.

A sudden thrill of recognition passed between the two long-lost friends.

A sharp feeling of knowing each other happened when they met again.

Noun 'thrill' used to describe a social/emotional connection.

The sheer thrill of the descent was enough to make him forget the arduous climb.

The pure excitement of going down made him forget the hard walk up.

Noun modified by 'sheer' for maximum emphasis.

The company's latest innovation has thrilled the tech industry.

The new invention has caused great excitement among technology experts.

Present perfect transitive verb usage.

The protagonist's descent into madness provides a dark, perverted thrill for the reader.

The main character's loss of sanity gives the reader a strange, intense excitement.

Noun used in a complex literary analysis.

He was a man for whom the thrill of acquisition far outweighed the utility of the objects.

He cared more about the excitement of getting things than using them.

Noun phrase 'thrill of acquisition' in a character study.

The air seemed to thrill with the electric tension of the approaching storm.

The atmosphere felt like it was vibrating with the energy of the coming weather.

Metaphorical intransitive verb usage.

She experienced a frisson, a momentary thrill that prickled the skin of her arms.

She felt a brief shiver of excitement that made her skin tingle.

Using 'thrill' as an appositive to define 'frisson'.

The politician's rhetoric was designed to thrill the base while alienating moderates.

The speaker's words were meant to excite his supporters but push away others.

Transitive verb used in a political strategy context.

To the seasoned climber, the thrill of the precipice is a familiar companion.

For the experienced climber, the excitement of the edge is something they know well.

Personification of 'thrill' as a 'companion'.

The discovery of the manuscript sent a thrill of excitement through the academic community.

Finding the old book caused a huge wave of excitement among scholars.

Idiomatic 'sent a thrill through' structure.

There is an undeniable thrill in the subversion of established norms.

There is a clear excitement in breaking the rules of society.

Abstract noun usage in a sociological context.

Collocations courantes

Thrill of the chase

Thrill-seeker

Cheap thrill

Thrill ride

Absolute thrill

Give someone a thrill

Thrill of victory

Sudden thrill

Thrilled to bits

Thrilled to pieces

Phrases Courantes

The thrill is gone

— The excitement or passion in a situation or relationship has ended.

After ten years in the same job, the thrill is gone.

Thrill of a lifetime

— An incredibly exciting experience that happens only once.

Going on safari was the thrill of a lifetime.

Just for the thrill of it

— Doing something only for the excitement, without any other reason.

He drove fast just for the thrill of it.

A thrill a minute

— Something that is constantly exciting or full of action.

The new action movie is a thrill a minute.

Seek thrills

— To actively look for exciting or dangerous experiences.

Young people often seek thrills in extreme sports.

Thrill of discovery

— The excitement felt when finding or learning something new.

Scientists are driven by the thrill of discovery.

Get a thrill out of

— To enjoy something very much or find it exciting.

She gets a thrill out of public speaking.

Provide a thrill

— To cause excitement for someone else.

The circus provides a thrill for people of all ages.

Thrill of anticipation

— The excitement felt while waiting for something good to happen.

The thrill of anticipation before the holiday was intense.

A vicarious thrill

— Excitement felt by watching or hearing about someone else's experience.

I get a vicarious thrill from reading about your travels.

Souvent confondu avec

thrill vs Trill

A musical term for a rapid alternation of notes. It sounds similar but has no 'h'.

thrill vs Drill

A tool for making holes or a repetitive exercise. It starts with a 'd' sound.

thrill vs Frill

A decorative strip of fabric. It starts with an 'f' sound.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Thrilled to bits"

— Extremely pleased and excited.

I'm thrilled to bits that you're coming to stay!

Informal (British)

"Thrilled to pieces"

— Very happy and excited about something.

She was thrilled to pieces with the flowers.

Informal (American)

"The thrill of the hunt"

— The excitement of searching for or pursuing something.

For antique collectors, it's all about the thrill of the hunt.

Neutral

"Cheap thrills"

— Excitement that is easily obtained but often shallow or slightly wrong.

He's just looking for cheap thrills and doesn't want a real relationship.

Informal

"A thrill a minute"

— Used sarcastically to mean something is actually very boring, or literally for something very exciting.

This accounting lecture is a thrill a minute, isn't it?

Informal/Sarcastic

"The thrill is gone"

— The initial excitement or interest in something has disappeared.

The thrill is gone from their marriage.

Neutral

"Thrill of a lifetime"

— The most exciting thing that will ever happen to you.

Winning the lottery was the thrill of a lifetime.

Neutral

"To thrill to the core"

— To cause someone to feel excitement in their whole being.

The music thrilled her to the core.

Literary

"To get one's thrills"

— To find excitement in a specific (often unusual) way.

He gets his thrills from mountain climbing.

Informal

"Thrill of victory, agony of defeat"

— The extreme highs and lows of competitive sports.

The documentary captures the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.

Neutral/Journalistic

Facile à confondre

thrill vs Excitement

Both describe positive high energy.

Excitement is general and can last a long time. Thrill is usually sudden, sharp, and more intense.

The excitement for the party lasted all week, but the thrill of the surprise was over in a second.

thrill vs Exhilaration

Both mean intense excitement.

Exhilaration often implies a feeling of being refreshed or invigorated, often by physical activity or nature.

He felt the exhilaration of the cold wind on his face.

thrill vs Frisson

Both involve a physical reaction to excitement.

Frisson is more literary and specifically refers to the shiver or 'goosebumps' felt during excitement or fear.

A frisson of delight ran through her as the music began.

thrill vs Rush

Both describe a sudden surge of feeling.

Rush is more informal and often refers specifically to the physical feeling of adrenaline.

He got a rush of adrenaline before the jump.

thrill vs Euphoria

Both are very strong positive emotions.

Euphoria is much stronger and more all-encompassing, often described as a state of bliss.

The team was in a state of euphoria after winning the world cup.

Structures de phrases

It is a thrill.

It is a thrill to win.

I was thrilled to [verb].

I was thrilled to see you.

The [noun] was thrilling.

The race was thrilling.

A thrill of [emotion].

A thrill of excitement.

Thrilled with [something].

She was thrilled with the results.

Thrilled for [someone].

We are thrilled for your success.

Sent a thrill through [object].

The news sent a thrill through the city.

[Subject] thrilled with [emotion].

His voice thrilled with anger.

Famille de mots

Noms

Thrill

Thriller

Thrill-seeker

Verbes

Thrill

Adjectifs

Thrilling

Thrilled

Apparenté

Frisson

Exhilaration

Excitement

Rush

Adrenaline

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in both spoken and written English, especially in media and social contexts.

Erreurs courantes

I am very thrilling to see you. → I am very thrilled to see you.
You are the one feeling the emotion, so you must use the -ed ending.
The movie was very thrilled. → The movie was very thrilling.
The movie is the cause of the excitement, so it needs the -ing ending.
I felt a thrill of the chase. → I felt the thrill of the chase.
When using the specific idiom, we usually use the definite article 'the'.
He is a thrill-seeker person. → He is a thrill-seeker.
'Thrill-seeker' is already a noun describing a person, so you don't need to add 'person' after it.
I am thrilled for my new car. → I am thrilled with my new car.
Use 'with' for objects or results, and 'for' for people.

Astuces

Adjective Choice

Remember: -ing for the cause (The ride was thrilling), -ed for the feeling (I was thrilled). This applies to many English adjectives like bored/boring and interested/interesting.

Use Synonyms

To sound more like a native speaker, vary your words. Use 'rush' for physical feelings, 'kick' for hobbies, and 'thrilled' for social news.

Showing Enthusiasm

Using 'thrilled' when someone tells you good news makes you sound very supportive. 'I'm thrilled for you!' is much stronger than 'That's good.'

Vivid Descriptions

Don't just say something was a thrill. Describe the physical sensation—the racing heart or the shiver—to help the reader feel the emotion.

Business Tone

'We are thrilled to announce...' is a standard, professional way to start a positive company update. It balances excitement with a formal structure.

Context Clues

If you hear 'thrill' in a movie review, expect the movie to be fast-paced and exciting. If you hear it in a theme park, expect big rides.

The 'TH' Sound

If you struggle with 'th,' practice saying 'three' and then 'thrill.' The tongue position is the same. Don't let it turn into a 't' or 'd' sound.

Regional Differences

Use 'thrilled to bits' in the UK and 'thrilled to pieces' in the US to sound more natural in those specific locations.

Genre Recognition

When you see the word 'Thriller' on a book cover, you know it will be a story about crime, mystery, or danger that keeps you excited.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use 'thrill' for everyday things like eating lunch. It loses its power if you use it for things that aren't truly exciting.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'THRILL' as a 'TH-REAL' (The Real) excitement. It's the real deal when it comes to feeling alive!

Association visuelle

Imagine a person with their arms in the air on a roller coaster, hair blowing back, and a huge smile on their face.

Word Web

Adventure Adrenaline Roller coaster Excitement Heartbeat Surprise Fear Joy

Défi

Try to use 'thrill' as a noun, 'thrilling' as an adjective, and 'thrilled' as a past participle in three different sentences today.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Middle English word 'thryllen' or 'thyrillen,' which came from the Old English 'thyrlian.'

Sens originel : To pierce, penetrate, or make a hole in something.

Germanic (Old English)

Contexte culturel

Generally a positive word, but be careful using 'cheap thrills' as it can imply someone is shallow or immoral.

Commonly used in sports, entertainment, and social greetings ('Thrilled to meet you').

Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' album and song. The phrase 'The Thrill of Victory and the Agony of Defeat' from ABC's Wide World of Sports. B.B. King's famous blues song 'The Thrill Is Gone'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amusement Parks

Thrill ride
Thrill-seeker
Height requirement
Adrenaline rush

Sports

Thrill of victory
Close game
Heart-pounding finish
Crowd favorite

Professional Success

Thrilled to announce
Great honor
Significant achievement
Looking forward to

Movies and Books

Psychological thriller
Thrilling plot
Edge of your seat
Suspenseful

Personal Relationships

Thrilled for you
A real thrill to meet
Share the news
Exciting times

Amorces de conversation

"What is the biggest thrill you have ever experienced in your life?"

"Do you consider yourself a thrill-seeker, or do you prefer quiet activities?"

"What kind of movies do you find more thrilling: action or horror?"

"Have you ever been thrilled to bits by a surprise gift or event?"

"Is there a specific hobby that gives you a thrill every time you do it?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you felt a sudden thrill. What caused it and how did your body feel?

Write about the difference between a 'cheap thrill' and a meaningful achievement in your life.

If you could design the ultimate thrill ride, what would it look like and what would it do?

Reflect on a time you were thrilled for someone else's success. Why did it make you so happy?

Discuss the role of 'thrills' in modern society. Are we too obsessed with seeking excitement?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Usually, 'thrill' is positive, but it can describe the excitement of fear (like in a horror movie). Phrases like 'cheap thrills' can also have a slightly negative or judgmental connotation, implying the excitement is shallow or obtained in a bad way.

A thriller is a genre of fiction (books, movies, plays) characterized by suspense, tension, and excitement. The main goal of a thriller is to keep the audience 'on the edge of their seats' with a fast-paced and unpredictable plot.

Yes, 'thrilled' is more intense and slightly more formal than 'happy.' In a business email, saying 'I am thrilled to work with you' shows more professional enthusiasm and polish than simply saying 'I am happy to work with you.'

It is a voiceless 'th,' like in 'think' or 'three.' Place your tongue lightly between your front teeth and blow air out without using your voice. Then immediately move into the 'r' sound.

It refers to the excitement of pursuing a goal, a person, or an object. Often, it implies that the process of trying to get something is more exciting than actually having it. For example, a collector might enjoy finding a rare item more than owning it.

Only if you mean that you are a person who causes excitement in others. If you want to say that you feel excited, you must say 'I am thrilled.' This is a very common mistake for English learners.

A thrill-seeker is a person who enjoys taking risks and participating in dangerous or exciting activities, such as extreme sports, to experience a surge of adrenaline and excitement.

It is countable. You can say 'It gave me a thrill' or 'The trip was full of thrills and spills.' You use 'a' or 'the' with it, and it can be pluralized.

It is a British idiom meaning extremely happy and excited. 'Bits' refers to small pieces, suggesting you are so happy you are bursting into pieces. Americans use 'thrilled to pieces' in the same way.

Use 'exhilarating' when the excitement feels fresh, healthy, and physically stimulating, like being outdoors or doing exercise. Use 'thrilling' for things that are suspenseful, adventurous, or surprising.

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