appalling in 30 Seconds
- Appalling means shockingly bad, extremely unpleasant, or causing horror.
- It's used to emphasize severe negative situations, behavior, or quality.
- Think of extreme shock, dismay, or horror when using this word.
- Avoid using it for minor inconveniences or slight imperfections.
- Definition
- The word 'appalling' describes something that is shockingly bad, extremely unpleasant, or causes dismay or horror. It's a strong adjective used to convey a sense of extreme disapproval or revulsion. When something is appalling, it's not just bad; it's bad to a degree that elicits a strong negative emotional response.
- Usage Context
- People use 'appalling' to emphasize the severity of a negative situation, behavior, or quality. It's often employed in contexts involving injustice, cruelty, extreme incompetence, or deeply unpleasant experiences. For instance, you might describe the living conditions in a slum as appalling, or the behavior of a politician as appalling. It signifies a level of badness that is almost beyond belief or tolerance. This word is more common in formal contexts or when expressing strong personal opinions, but it can also be used in everyday conversation to highlight a particularly disturbing aspect of something. It's not a word used for minor inconveniences or slight imperfections; it's reserved for things that are truly dreadful.
- Nuance
- The power of 'appalling' lies in its ability to evoke a visceral reaction. It suggests that the subject in question is not merely flawed but fundamentally wrong or offensive. It carries a weight of moral judgment and often implies a failure to meet basic standards of decency, quality, or competence. When you hear or read 'appalling,' you should expect a description of something deeply disturbing or reprehensible. It's a word that demands attention and signals that the speaker or writer is expressing a very strong negative sentiment.
The conditions in the overcrowded refugee camp were simply appalling.
His lack of basic empathy was appalling.
The company's response to the crisis was appalling; they did nothing to help the affected families.
We were shocked by the appalling state of the historical building, which had been left to decay.
The level of noise pollution from the construction site was appalling, making it impossible to concentrate.
- Subject + Verb + Appalling
- This is a common structure where 'appalling' directly describes a noun. For example, 'The service at the restaurant was appalling.' Here, 'appalling' modifies 'service.' The subject can be an abstract concept, an action, a situation, or a physical thing. Think about what aspect is causing shock or dismay. Is it the quality of something? The nature of an action? The state of affairs? The sentence structure remains simple, but the word choice injects significant negative emotion and judgment. The key is to identify the noun that is so bad it warrants this strong descriptor. It could be anything from 'their behavior' to 'the results' to 'the accident.'
- It is Appalling That...
- This construction is used to introduce a clause that explains what is appalling. It emphasizes the shocking nature of a fact or situation. For instance, 'It is appalling that so many people still live in poverty.' The 'that' clause provides the specific reason for the shock or dismay. This structure often highlights systemic issues or widely known but unacceptable circumstances. It allows you to draw attention to a problem and express your strong disapproval of it. The focus shifts to the state of affairs that is deemed unacceptable. Consider using this when you want to make a strong statement about a broader issue rather than a single event or object.
- The Appalling...
- Here, 'appalling' acts as an adjective directly preceding a noun, modifying it to indicate its extreme negative quality. Examples include 'the appalling lack of progress,' 'the appalling conditions,' or 'the appalling injustice.' This is a straightforward way to use the word to describe a noun. It emphasizes the specific quality of the noun itself as being shockingly bad. This structure is versatile and can be used to describe tangible things, abstract concepts, or situations. Think about what noun needs to be characterized as exceptionally bad. It could be a deficiency, a state of being, or an event. The emphasis is on the noun's inherent awfulness.
- Appalling Behavior/Treatment/Conditions
- 'Appalling' frequently collocates with nouns that describe human actions, interactions, or environments. For example, 'appalling behavior' refers to actions that are shocking or morally reprehensible. 'Appalling treatment' suggests mistreatment that is extremely unfair or cruel. 'Appalling conditions' describes environments that are extremely unpleasant or dangerous. These collocations are very common and immediately convey a strong sense of negative judgment. When you want to critique someone's actions, how someone is treated, or the state of a place, these phrases are highly effective. They are particularly useful in reports, critiques, and discussions of social issues.
- Appalling to See/Witness/Hear
- This phrasing emphasizes the emotional impact of something perceived. For instance, 'The extent of the damage was appalling to see.' It suggests that the visual or auditory experience of something is shocking and disturbing. This highlights the subjective reaction to an objective reality. It's useful when you want to convey not just that something is bad, but how it made you feel. The shock and dismay are palpable. Consider this structure when describing the sensory or emotional impact of a negative event or situation.
The appalling state of the abandoned factory was a stark reminder of the town's decline.
It is appalling that child labor is still a reality in some parts of the world.
The company's response to the environmental disaster was utterly appalling.
Witnessing the aftermath of the earthquake was an appalling experience.
The protesters condemned the appalling treatment of animals in the factory farm.
- News Reports and Documentaries
- 'Appalling' is a word frequently used by journalists and documentary filmmakers to describe serious social issues, human rights abuses, environmental disasters, and instances of extreme injustice or suffering. You'll hear it when reporting on events that have a significant negative impact on people or the planet. For example, a news segment might describe the 'appalling conditions' in a war-torn region or the 'appalling lack of preparedness' for a natural disaster. Documentaries often use it to highlight the severity of problems such as poverty, exploitation, or historical atrocities, aiming to shock the audience into awareness and action. The word lends a sense of gravity and urgency to the reporting.
- Critiques and Reviews (Formal)
- In formal critiques, such as literary reviews, film critiques, or performance reviews, 'appalling' can be used to express extreme dissatisfaction with a work or a performance. It signifies that the quality was not just poor, but shockingly bad, perhaps due to a complete lack of talent, effort, or understanding. For instance, a theatre critic might describe a play as having 'appalling acting' or a reviewer might find the plot of a film to be 'appallingly predictable.' This usage indicates a significant failure to meet basic artistic or professional standards and a strong negative judgment from the reviewer.
- Public Speeches and Political Discourse
- Politicians and public figures often use 'appalling' to condemn actions, policies, or situations they deem unacceptable. It's a powerful rhetorical tool to galvanize public opinion against an opponent or a particular issue. For example, a politician might refer to the 'appalling cost of living' or condemn an opponent's 'appalling record' on environmental protection. The word adds emotional weight to their arguments and signals a strong moral stance. It's particularly effective when addressing matters of public welfare, ethics, and social justice, aiming to evoke outrage and a demand for change.
- Discussions of Social Injustice and Human Rights
- In conversations and debates about social issues, 'appalling' is a common descriptor for systemic discrimination, human rights violations, and instances of cruelty or neglect. Activists, academics, and concerned citizens use it to draw attention to the severity of these problems. You might hear someone describe the 'appalling disparities' in healthcare access or the 'appalling treatment' of marginalized groups. The word underscores the moral outrage associated with these injustices and serves to highlight the urgent need for reform and intervention. It signifies a profound failure of ethical standards.
- Personal Anecdotes (Expressing Strong Disgust)
- While 'appalling' is a strong word, it can also be used in more personal conversations to express extreme disgust or shock about something encountered. For instance, someone might recount an experience at a restaurant and say, 'The hygiene in the kitchen was appalling,' or describe a situation they witnessed as 'truly appalling.' In these cases, the word is used to convey a genuinely shocking or horrifying personal experience, emphasizing the depth of their negative reaction. It's usually reserved for situations that genuinely shock or disturb the speaker, moving beyond mere disappointment to a level of dismay or horror.
The documentary revealed the appalling conditions faced by workers in the garment industry.
Critics lambasted the film for its appalling plot holes and wooden acting.
The politician described the rival's voting record as 'appalling' and a betrayal of public trust.
Human rights groups protested the appalling treatment of prisoners in the detention center.
I was appalled by the sheer amount of litter in the park; it was an appalling mess.
- Overuse for Minor Issues
- The most common mistake is using 'appalling' to describe things that are merely inconvenient, disappointing, or slightly bad. Because it's such a strong word, its power is diluted if used too frequently for minor offenses. For example, saying 'The traffic was appalling' when you were just a few minutes late is an overstatement. 'Appalling' implies a level of shock, horror, or extreme dismay that a traffic jam typically doesn't warrant. This can make the speaker sound overly dramatic or insincere. It's crucial to reserve 'appalling' for situations that genuinely evoke strong negative emotions and are objectively very bad.
- Confusing with 'Appreciative' or Similar Sounding Words
- Though less common at higher levels, learners might sometimes confuse words that sound somewhat similar. 'Appreciative' (meaning grateful) is phonetically distant, but the 'app-' prefix can sometimes lead to confusion. More likely, a learner might mix up 'appalling' with other negative adjectives if they are not fully grasping the intensity of 'appalling.' The key is to remember that 'appalling' specifically relates to shock, horror, and extreme badness, not just general negativity or a lack of something positive.
- Using it as a Noun or Verb
- 'Appalling' is an adjective. It should be used to modify nouns or pronouns. Mistakes can occur when people try to use it as a noun (e.g., 'The appalling was evident') or as a verb (e.g., 'The news appalling'). The word does not function in these grammatical roles. The related verb is 'appal' (or 'appall' in American English), meaning to shock or horrify, and the noun is 'appal' or 'appallment,' though these are less common than the adjective. Ensure 'appalling' is placed correctly in a sentence to describe something.
- Lack of Specificity
- While 'appalling' is a strong descriptor, sometimes its use can be too general. Simply stating something is 'appalling' without further explanation might leave the listener or reader wondering why. For instance, 'The situation was appalling' is less impactful than 'The appalling lack of basic sanitation led to widespread disease.' Adding context or specifying what aspect is appalling makes the statement much more effective and conveys the intended severity more clearly. The strength of 'appalling' is best utilized when it's supported by details.
- Not Understanding the Degree of Negativity
- Some learners might understand 'appalling' as just 'very bad.' However, it signifies a level of badness that is shocking, horrifying, or causes extreme dismay. It's a step beyond 'terrible' or 'awful.' If something is merely 'bad,' 'appalling' is too strong. If something is 'terrible,' 'appalling' might be appropriate if it also evokes shock. Understanding this nuance is key. It's about the emotional and visceral reaction – the feeling of being shocked or horrified by the extreme nature of the badness.
Mistake: The weather today is appalling.
Correction: The weather today is unpleasant.
Mistake: The team's appalling was very disappointing.
Correction: The team's performance was very disappointing.
Mistake: The news appalls me.
Correction: The news is appalling (or: The news appals me - using the verb).
Mistake: The appalling of the situation was clear.
Correction: The awfulness of the situation was clear.
Mistake: The food was just okay, a bit appalling.
Correction: The food was just okay, a bit disappointing.
- Horrendous
- Very similar to 'appalling,' 'horrendous' also denotes something extremely bad, dreadful, or shocking. It often carries a sense of being frightful or causing terror. While 'appalling' emphasizes shock and dismay, 'horrendous' can lean more towards terror or extreme unpleasantness.
- Comparison
- Both words are strong negative adjectives. 'Appalling' might be used for something morally shocking or incompetent, while 'horrendous' might be used for something physically gruesome or terrifyingly unpleasant. For example, 'appalling corruption' versus 'horrendous injuries.'
- Dreadful
- 'Dreadful' means extremely bad or unpleasant. It's a strong word, but often less intense than 'appalling' or 'horrendous.' It can imply something that causes dread or is of very poor quality.
- Comparison
- 'Dreadful' is a good general-purpose word for something very bad. 'Appalling' adds the element of shock and dismay. You might describe a 'dreadful mistake,' but 'appalling mistake' suggests the mistake was so severe it caused significant shock or horror, perhaps with serious consequences.
- Shocking
- 'Shocking' directly refers to causing surprise or distress, often by being unexpected and unpleasant. It's very close in meaning to 'appalling,' as 'appalling' things are inherently shocking. However, 'shocking' can sometimes be used for things that are merely surprising and unpleasant, while 'appalling' implies a deeper level of dismay or horror.
- Comparison
- 'Appalling' is often a more extreme form of 'shocking.' Something can be shocking without being appalling (e.g., a shocking plot twist in a movie), but something appalling is almost always shocking. 'Appalling' suggests a more profound negative reaction.
- Ghastly
- 'Ghastly' often describes something that is horrible, frightful, or deathly pale. It can be used for things that are physically repulsive or terrifying.
- Comparison
- While both are strong negative words, 'ghastly' often has connotations of the macabre, the gruesome, or the deathly. 'Appalling' is broader and can apply to moral failings, incompetence, or extremely unpleasant conditions without necessarily being gruesome.
- Abysmal
- 'Abysmal' means extremely bad or poor quality. It suggests a depth of badness, like falling into an abyss. It's often used to describe performance, standards, or quality.
- Comparison
- 'Abysmal' focuses on the extremely low quality or standard. 'Appalling' emphasizes the shock and dismay caused by this extremely low quality or by other factors like moral failing. You could have 'abysmal results' that are also 'appalling' if they were shockingly bad.
- Terrible
- 'Terrible' means extremely bad or serious. It's a common and versatile word for negative situations.
- Comparison
- 'Terrible' is a general term for very bad. 'Appalling' is more specific, indicating that the badness is shocking, horrifying, or causes extreme dismay. 'Terrible' is a weaker, less emotionally charged word than 'appalling.'
- Awful
- Similar to 'terrible,' 'awful' means very bad or unpleasant.
- Comparison
- Like 'terrible,' 'awful' is a more general term for badness. 'Appalling' carries a stronger sense of shock and horror. Something can be awful without being appalling, but it's hard to be appalling without also being awful.
- Unacceptable
- 'Unacceptable' means not allowed or approved, or not good enough. It implies a failure to meet standards or expectations.
- Comparison
- 'Unacceptable' is often used in more formal or polite contexts to indicate something is wrong. 'Appalling' is much stronger and conveys moral outrage or extreme shock. An 'unacceptable delay' might be annoying, but 'appalling delay' suggests it was so long and consequential that it caused shock or despair.
Instead of 'The service was appalling,' you could say: The service was horrendous.
Instead of 'The conditions were appalling,' you could say: The conditions were dreadful.
Instead of 'The result was appalling,' you could say: The result was shocking.
Instead of 'The scene was appalling,' you could say: The scene was ghastly.
Instead of 'The quality was appalling,' you could say: The quality was abysmal.
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The idea of 'growing pale' as a reaction to something shocking or horrifying is quite ancient. It reflects a visceral, involuntary response to extreme fear or dread. The 'a-' prefix often indicates 'to' or 'towards,' so 'appal' literally meant to bring someone to a state of paleness.
Pronunciation Guide
- Misplacing stress on the first syllable.
- Pronouncing the 'a' as in 'apple' instead of the 'aw' sound.
- Pronouncing the 'i' as in 'ice' instead of 'king.'
Difficulty Rating
CEFR C2 level words like 'appalling' are typically encountered in advanced reading materials such as academic texts, in-depth news analysis, and complex literary works. Understanding its nuances and appropriate usage requires a strong command of vocabulary and context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Use of strong adjectives to convey emotion.
Instead of 'The movie was bad,' use 'The movie was appalling' to convey a much stronger negative reaction and sense of shock.
Adjective placement.
'Appalling' typically precedes the noun it modifies (e.g., 'appalling conditions') or follows a linking verb (e.g., 'The conditions were appalling.').
Using 'It is...' constructions for emphasis.
'It is appalling that people are still suffering from hunger' emphasizes the shocking nature of the fact.
Collocations and fixed phrases.
Recognizing common pairings like 'appalling lack of...' or 'appalling treatment...' helps in natural usage.
Distinguishing synonyms based on intensity and nuance.
Understanding that 'appalling' is stronger than 'terrible' and often implies shock or horror is key to precise vocabulary use.
Examples by Level
The old house looked awful and the garden was in an appalling state.
The old house looked terrible and the garden was in a very bad condition.
Here, 'appalling' describes the state of the garden, indicating it's extremely bad.
It was appalling to see the amount of trash on the beach.
It was shocking to see the amount of garbage on the beach.
'Appalling' is used here to express shock and dismay at the sight.
His behavior at the party was appalling; he was very rude to everyone.
His behavior at the party was extremely bad; he was very impolite to everyone.
'Appalling' describes behavior that is shockingly bad or offensive.
The food at the new restaurant was appalling; we didn't eat much.
The food at the new restaurant was extremely bad; we did not eat a lot.
Used to describe food that is of very poor quality and unpleasant.
The student's work showed an appalling lack of effort.
The student's work showed a shocking lack of effort.
Highlights a severe deficiency, in this case, of effort.
We were appalled by the news of the accident.
We were shocked by the news of the accident.
Describes the feeling of being shocked or horrified by something.
The living conditions in the old building were appalling.
The living conditions in the old building were very bad.
Used to describe extremely unpleasant or unsafe living environments.
It's appalling that some people have to work so many hours for so little pay.
It is shocking that some people have to work so many hours for such low wages.
Expresses strong disapproval of an unfair or exploitative situation.
The company's environmental record was appalling, leading to widespread public outcry.
The company's history of environmental damage was shocking, causing widespread public protest.
Emphasizes a severe negative performance or history.
He was appalled by the blatant disregard for safety regulations on the construction site.
He was shocked by the obvious lack of respect for safety rules on the building site.
Highlights a shocking failure to adhere to rules or standards.
The sheer incompetence displayed by the organizing committee was appalling.
The extreme lack of skill shown by the people who organized the event was shocking.
Used to describe a shocking level of ineptitude or lack of ability.
Witnessing the aftermath of the natural disaster was an appalling experience.
Seeing the destruction after the natural disaster was a horrifying experience.
Describes an experience that is deeply disturbing and shocking.
The government's response to the economic crisis was widely seen as appalling.
The government's reaction to the economic problems was generally considered shockingly inadequate.
Critiques a response or action as being extremely poor or inadequate.
She found the level of noise pollution in the city to be appalling.
She thought the amount of noise in the city was extremely unpleasant and shocking.
Describes an extremely unpleasant environmental factor.
The author's portrayal of the historical events was factually inaccurate and, frankly, appalling.
The author's depiction of the historical events was wrong and, to be honest, shockingly bad.
Critiques the quality or integrity of a narrative or representation.
It is appalling that such basic human rights are still violated in some countries.
It is shocking that such fundamental rights for people are still broken in some nations.
Expresses moral outrage at the violation of fundamental rights.
The director's decision to cut funding for essential services was met with appalling criticism from the public.
The director's choice to reduce money for necessary services was faced with widespread shocked disapproval from the public.
Describes criticism that is severe and stems from shock at a decision.
He expressed his dismay at the appalling state of disrepair of the historic monument.
He showed his unhappiness about the shocking condition of neglect of the old monument.
Highlights a shocking level of deterioration or neglect.
The media coverage of the event was criticized for its appalling lack of sensitivity towards the victims.
The way the media reported on the event was criticized for its shocking absence of empathy for those affected.
Points out a serious failure in ethical reporting or human consideration.
The sheer audacity of the criminals to commit such an appalling crime left the authorities baffled.
The extreme boldness of the criminals to commit such a shocking crime left the police confused.
Describes a crime or act that is shockingly bold and morally reprehensible.
The report detailed the appalling conditions in which the animals were kept.
The document described in detail the shocking and terrible conditions where the animals were housed.
Used in formal reports to describe extremely unpleasant or inhumane environments.
It's appalling that so much taxpayer money was wasted on such a flawed project.
It is shocking that so much money from taxes was thrown away on a project with so many problems.
Expresses strong disapproval of financial mismanagement and waste.
The company faced an appalling backlash after its discriminatory hiring practices were revealed.
The company encountered a severe and shocking negative reaction after its unfair hiring methods were made public.
Describes a severe negative reaction to unethical or unacceptable actions.
The judge condemned the defendant's appalling lack of remorse.
The judge criticized the defendant's shocking absence of regret.
Highlights a shocking absence of a expected positive emotion or trait.
The committee was tasked with investigating the allegations of appalling mismanagement within the charity sector.
The committee was assigned the job of looking into the claims of shockingly poor administration in the non-profit organizations.
Used in formal investigations to describe severe administrative failures.
He delivered an impassioned speech condemning the appalling injustices faced by refugees.
He gave a strong speech criticizing the shocking and unfair treatment experienced by people seeking asylum.
Highlights severe injustices that evoke strong moral condemnation.
The novel's depiction of wartime atrocities was so vivid that it was, at times, almost appalling to read.
The book's portrayal of terrible events during wartime was so realistic that it was, at certain points, nearly horrifying to read.
Describes content that is so disturbing it elicits a strong negative emotional response.
The economic disparities, exacerbated by the new policies, were nothing short of appalling.
The differences in wealth, made worse by the new rules, were extremely shocking and unacceptable.
Describes severe societal inequalities that are shocking and morally objectionable.
Critics lauded the author's courage in exposing the appalling corruption within the political system.
Reviewers praised the author's bravery in revealing the shocking and widespread dishonesty in the government.
Used to describe deeply ingrained and shocking dishonesty in institutions.
The humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region was characterized by appalling levels of malnutrition and disease.
The severe problem for people needing help in the area was marked by shockingly high rates of starvation and illness.
Describes extreme and shocking severity of negative health conditions.
His argument, built on a foundation of fallacious reasoning, was fundamentally appalling.
His reasoning, based on incorrect logic, was ultimately shocking and unacceptable.
Critiques an argument or line of reasoning as being shockingly flawed or morally wrong.
The sheer indifference of the authorities to the suffering of the citizens was appalling.
The extreme lack of concern shown by the officials towards the people's pain was shocking.
Highlights a shocking lack of empathy or action in the face of suffering.
The inquiry revealed an appalling pattern of systemic negligence that had gone unchecked for years.
The investigation uncovered a shocking and recurring instance of widespread neglect that had not been stopped or corrected for a long time.
Describes a deeply ingrained and shocking failure within a complex system.
Her impassioned plea highlighted the appalling degradation of ethical standards in contemporary society.
Her fervent appeal drew attention to the shockingly severe decline in moral principles in modern culture.
Used to describe a profound and shocking decline in moral or ethical principles.
The historical account did not shy away from depicting the appalling barbarity of the conflict.
The historical record did not hesitate to show the shockingly cruel and savage nature of the war.
Describes extreme cruelty and savagery, often in historical contexts.
The sheer banality of the evil perpetrated was, in its own way, as appalling as the acts themselves.
The ordinary, everyday nature of the wickedness committed was, in a sense, as shocking and horrifying as the actions were.
A sophisticated use, linking the shocking nature of evil to its ordinary or mundane presentation.
He found the deliberate obfuscation of facts by the authorities to be an appalling betrayal of public trust.
He considered the intentional confusing or hiding of information by the officials to be a shocking and unacceptable violation of the confidence placed in them.
Describes a shocking act of deception and violation of integrity.
The novel's exploration of the psychological toll of prolonged abuse was relentlessly appalling.
The book's examination of the mental damage caused by long-term mistreatment was consistently horrifying and disturbing.
Describes the deeply disturbing and horrifying psychological impact of severe negative experiences.
The report meticulously documented the appalling consequences of unchecked industrial expansion on the local ecosystem.
The report thoroughly recorded the shockingly severe negative effects of unrestricted industrial growth on the natural environment of the area.
Describes the severe and shocking negative outcomes of unchecked development.
The sheer lack of foresight demonstrated by the leadership was appalling, leading to a cascade of preventable disasters.
The extreme absence of planning and consideration shown by the leaders was shockingly bad, resulting in a series of crises that could have been avoided.
Critiques a shocking failure in leadership and planning that leads to severe negative consequences.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Used to describe something that is shocking and unpleasant to witness.
The devastation caused by the fire was appalling to see.
— Used to describe something that is shocking and distressing when heard.
The details of the crime were appalling to hear.
— Similar to 'appalling to see,' emphasizing the disturbing nature of observing an event.
The cruelty inflicted on the animals was appalling to witness.
— Highlights a severe and shocking deficiency in something expected or necessary.
There was an appalling lack of communication between the departments.
— Describes a situation that is extremely bad, chaotic, or unacceptable.
The country's political situation was an appalling state of affairs.
— Introduces a clause that expresses shock and disapproval about a particular fact or situation.
It is appalling that such basic needs are not met for many people.
— Indicates a shocking lack of respect or consideration for something important.
The company showed an appalling disregard for environmental regulations.
— Used to describe an extremely high and unacceptable degree of something negative.
The report revealed an appalling level of corruption.
— Refers to the severe and shocking negative outcomes of an action or event.
The decision had appalling consequences for the local economy.
— The shocking and deeply unpleasant reality of a situation.
He finally discovered the appalling truth about his company's practices.
Often Confused With
These words sound somewhat similar due to the 'app-' prefix but have completely different meanings. 'Appreciative' means feeling or showing gratitude, whereas 'appalling' means shockingly bad.
'Appal' is the verb form, meaning to shock or horrify. 'Appalling' is the adjective form, describing something that causes appal. For example, 'The news will appal you,' and 'The news is appalling.'
While synonyms, 'appalling' is generally stronger and implies a level of shock, horror, or extreme dismay that 'terrible' or 'awful' might not always convey.
Easily Confused
Both words describe something extremely bad and shocking.
'Appalling' often emphasizes the shock and dismay caused by a failure in quality, morality, or competence. 'Horrendous' can lean more towards something that is frightful, gruesome, or causes terror. For example, 'appalling corruption' vs. 'horrendous injuries.'
The conditions were appalling, and the injuries sustained were horrendous.
Both words indicate something that causes surprise and distress.
'Appalling' is generally a more intense form of 'shocking.' Something can be shocking without being truly appalling (e.g., a surprising plot twist), but something appalling is almost always shocking. 'Appalling' implies a deeper level of dismay or horror.
The revelation was shocking, but the subsequent cover-up was appalling.
Both are strong negative adjectives indicating something is very bad.
'Dreadful' is a more general term for something very bad or unpleasant. 'Appalling' adds the element of shock, horror, or extreme dismay. A 'dreadful mistake' might be just very bad, while an 'appalling mistake' suggests it was so significant it caused shock or disaster.
The weather was dreadful, and the news of the accident was appalling.
Both describe extremely poor quality or very bad situations.
'Abysmal' specifically refers to extremely low quality or standards, often in performance or results. 'Appalling' emphasizes the shock and dismay caused by this low quality or by other factors like moral failing or extreme unpleasantness. You can have 'abysmal service' that is also 'appalling' if it was shockingly bad and caused significant distress.
The team's performance was abysmal, and the coach's reaction was appalling.
Both indicate something is wrong or not good enough.
'Unacceptable' is often used to state that something fails to meet standards or is not permissible, often in a more polite or formal way. 'Appalling' is far stronger, conveying moral outrage, extreme shock, or horror. An 'unacceptable delay' might be annoying, but an 'appalling delay' suggests it was so severe it caused significant harm or dismay.
The delay was unacceptable, but the reasons given were appalling.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + be + appalling.
The mess in the kitchen was appalling.
The + appalling + noun.
The appalling conditions in the shelter were reported.
It is appalling that + clause.
It is appalling that so many people are homeless.
Subject + found + the appalling + noun + to be + adjective.
She found the appalling lack of support to be disheartening.
Appalling + noun + led to + noun.
Appalling mismanagement led to the company's collapse.
Subject + expressed + dismay/outrage + at + the appalling + noun.
The public expressed outrage at the appalling treatment of the refugees.
To witness/hear/see + the appalling + noun.
To witness the extent of the destruction was appalling.
The inquiry revealed an appalling pattern of + noun.
The inquiry revealed an appalling pattern of negligence.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High (in contexts of serious criticism or negative events)
-
Using 'appalling' for mild inconvenience.
→
Using a less intense adjective like 'inconvenient,' 'disappointing,' or 'unpleasant.'
Saying 'The traffic was appalling' when you were just a few minutes late is an overstatement. 'Appalling' implies shock and horror, which a traffic jam rarely warrants. Reserve it for truly dire situations.
-
Confusing 'appalling' (adjective) with 'appal' (verb).
→
Using 'appal' or 'appall' as a verb and 'appalling' as an adjective.
The verb 'appal' means to shock or horrify. The adjective 'appalling' describes something that causes that shock. For instance, 'The news appals me' (verb) vs. 'The news is appalling' (adjective).
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Using 'appalling' as a noun.
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Using related nouns like 'appalment' or rephrasing the sentence.
'Appalling' is an adjective. You cannot say 'The appalling was evident.' You might say 'The appalment was evident' (though 'appalment' is less common) or rephrase as 'The shocking nature of the situation was evident.'
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Not providing context for why something is appalling.
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Adding details to explain the severity of the situation.
Simply stating 'The situation was appalling' is less effective than explaining why: 'The appalling lack of clean water led to widespread disease.' Context makes the strong adjective meaningful.
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Using 'appalling' when a synonym like 'terrible' or 'awful' would suffice.
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Choosing the adjective that best fits the intensity of the situation.
'Appalling' is a very strong word. If something is merely 'bad' or 'terrible,' using 'appalling' can sound hyperbolic. Ensure the situation truly warrants a description of shock or horror.
Tips
Reserve for True Shock
Use 'appalling' only when something is genuinely shocking, horrifying, or extremely bad. Overusing it for minor issues will weaken its impact and make your descriptions less credible.
Consider the Degree
Understand that 'appalling' signifies a higher degree of negativity than words like 'bad,' 'terrible,' or 'awful.' It denotes a level of shock and dismay that goes beyond mere unpleasantness.
Adjective Placement
'Appalling' functions as an adjective. It usually comes before the noun it modifies (e.g., 'appalling conditions') or after a linking verb like 'to be' (e.g., 'The conditions were appalling').
Learn Collocations
Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'appalling conditions,' 'appalling behaviour,' and 'appalling lack of...' These collocations are frequently used and will help you use the word more naturally.
Etymology Link
Remember the word's origin: 'appal' means to grow pale with fear or shock. Visualize someone turning pale from horror to help recall the meaning of 'appalling.'
Stress the Second Syllable
The stress in 'appalling' falls on the second syllable: ap-PALL-ing. Practicing this pronunciation will make your speech clearer and more natural.
Distinguish from Similar Words
Know the subtle differences between 'appalling,' 'horrendous,' 'shocking,' and 'dreadful.' 'Appalling' often carries a sense of moral judgment or extreme failure, in addition to shock.
Use in Specific Contexts
This word is powerful for describing serious issues like human rights abuses, environmental disasters, or gross incompetence in formal settings like news reports or critiques.
Conveying Emotion
Use 'appalling' when you want to convey strong emotions of shock, dismay, or horror. It's a word that evokes a visceral negative reaction.
Write Example Sentences
The best way to master 'appalling' is to actively use it. Write sentences describing genuinely shocking situations, focusing on clarity and impact.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a pale person (who has grown 'pale' from fear) looking at something so bad, they literally want to 'all' (fall) down in shock. 'Appall-ing' sounds like 'a pale person' experiencing something that makes them 'all fall' in horror.
Visual Association
Picture a very pale face with wide, horrified eyes staring at something extremely unpleasant, like a pile of garbage or a scene of destruction. The paleness visually connects to the origin of the word 'appal' (to grow pale).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'appalling' in three different sentences describing genuinely shocking or horrifying situations. For example, describe an 'appalling lack of safety measures,' 'appalling living conditions,' and 'appalling behavior.'
Word Origin
The word 'appalling' comes from the verb 'appal' (or 'appall' in American English), which means to shock or horrify. This verb itself has roots in Old French, specifically from the verb 'apalir,' meaning 'to grow pale.'
Original meaning: The original sense was to make someone grow pale with fear or shock. This connection to a physical reaction (growing pale) highlights the intensity of the emotion evoked.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Gallo-Romance > Old French > EnglishCultural Context
While 'appalling' is a valid descriptor for severe negative situations, it should be used with care. Overuse can lead to hyperbole and diminish its impact. When describing sensitive topics like human suffering or trauma, ensure the context justifies such a strong word and avoid sensationalism.
In English-speaking cultures, 'appalling' is used to express strong moral outrage or deep disapproval. It's a word that carries significant emotional weight and is often employed in public discourse to condemn actions or situations deemed severely wrong.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing poor living or working conditions.
- appalling conditions
- appalling state
- appalling lack of sanitation
- appalling housing
Criticizing unethical or illegal behavior.
- appalling behaviour
- appalling crime
- appalling injustice
- appalling corruption
Reacting to extreme negligence or incompetence.
- appalling lack of preparedness
- appalling mismanagement
- appalling decision
- appalling incompetence
Discussing social issues and human rights.
- appalling treatment
- appalling poverty
- appalling discrimination
- appalling disregard for human rights
Expressing dismay at poor quality or outcomes.
- appalling results
- appalling quality
- appalling waste
- appalling standard
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever encountered a situation that was truly appalling?"
"What kind of behavior do you think deserves to be called appalling?"
"Can you think of a time when a decision was made that had appalling consequences?"
"What are some common examples of appalling living conditions you've heard about?"
"How do you react when you hear appalling news?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you witnessed or experienced something that you found appalling. What made it so shocking?
Think about a societal issue that you believe is appalling. Write about why it concerns you and what you think could be done.
Consider the difference between 'bad' and 'appalling.' Write about a situation that was merely bad, and then imagine how it would have to be worse to be described as appalling.
If you could change one thing that you find appalling in the world, what would it be and why?
Write a short story where the main character encounters an appalling situation. Focus on their reaction and the description of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Terrible' is a general adjective for something very bad. 'Appalling' is stronger and specifically implies that the badness is shocking, horrifying, or causes extreme dismay. Think of 'appalling' as 'terribly bad in a shocking way.'
It's generally not recommended to use 'appalling' for minor inconveniences like slightly late public transport or a slightly messy room. It's a strong word reserved for situations that genuinely evoke shock, horror, or extreme disapproval. Overusing it for everyday issues will dilute its impact.
Things described as appalling often include extremely poor living or working conditions, inhumane treatment, severe negligence, gross incompetence, shocking crimes, widespread corruption, or devastating environmental damage.
'Appalling' is considered a strong adjective that can be used in both formal and neutral contexts. It carries significant weight and is often used in formal writing like news reports, critiques, and political speeches to express strong condemnation. It can also be used in neutral conversation when discussing serious negative issues.
The verb form is 'appal' (or 'appall' in American English). It means to shock or horrify someone. The adjective 'appalling' describes something that causes this feeling. For example, 'The news appals me,' and 'The news is appalling.'
Yes, 'appalling' can be used to describe a person's behavior, character, or actions if they are shockingly bad or morally reprehensible. For example, 'His behavior was appalling.'
Common collocations include 'appalling conditions,' 'appalling behaviour,' 'appalling lack of,' 'appalling treatment,' and 'appalling state.'
While 'appalling' often implies moral wrongness (like injustice or cruelty), it can also describe something that is extremely unpleasant, of shockingly poor quality, or causes extreme dismay due to incompetence or negligence, even if not strictly immoral.
Both are strong negative adjectives. 'Appalling' emphasizes shock, dismay, and extreme badness, often related to quality or morality. 'Horrific' often implies something that causes terror or is gruesome and frightening.
It comes from the verb 'appal,' which derived from the Old French 'apalir,' meaning 'to grow pale.' The original sense was to make someone grow pale with fear or shock.
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Summary
Appalling describes something that is shockingly bad, extremely unpleasant, or causes horror. It's a strong adjective used to convey extreme disapproval and dismay, often highlighting severe failures in quality, morality, or competence.
- Appalling means shockingly bad, extremely unpleasant, or causing horror.
- It's used to emphasize severe negative situations, behavior, or quality.
- Think of extreme shock, dismay, or horror when using this word.
- Avoid using it for minor inconveniences or slight imperfections.
Reserve for True Shock
Use 'appalling' only when something is genuinely shocking, horrifying, or extremely bad. Overusing it for minor issues will weaken its impact and make your descriptions less credible.
Consider the Degree
Understand that 'appalling' signifies a higher degree of negativity than words like 'bad,' 'terrible,' or 'awful.' It denotes a level of shock and dismay that goes beyond mere unpleasantness.
Adjective Placement
'Appalling' functions as an adjective. It usually comes before the noun it modifies (e.g., 'appalling conditions') or after a linking verb like 'to be' (e.g., 'The conditions were appalling').
Learn Collocations
Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'appalling conditions,' 'appalling behaviour,' and 'appalling lack of...' These collocations are frequently used and will help you use the word more naturally.
Example
The weather during our vacation was absolutely appalling, with non-stop rain and wind.
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