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schrecklich
terrible
Describes something that is very unpleasant, awful, or of very poor quality.
example
Der Film war schrecklich, ich bin fast eingeschlafen.
The film was terrible; I almost fell asleep.
schrecklich
terrible
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'schrecklich' (terrible) is derived from 'der Schreck' (sudden, great fear). So it originally describes something that causes terror or fear.
EXAMPLE
Ein schrecklicher Sturm zog über das Land.
A terrible storm moved across the country.
Context clue
The meaning of 'schrecklich' depends on its position. If it describes a noun, it means 'furchtbar' (terrible/awful). If it stands before another adjective or adverb, it means 'sehr' (very) or 'extrem' (extremely).
EXAMPLE
Das war ein schrecklicher Fehler.
That was a terrible mistake.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'furchtbar' (terrible/awful), 'schrecklich' is often used to describe negative events, conditions, or qualities: ein schrecklicher Unfall (a terrible accident), schreckliche Schmerzen (terrible pain), schreckliches Wetter (terrible weather).
EXAMPLE
Sie hat nach dem Sport schreckliche Kopfschmerzen.
She has terrible headaches after exercising.
Use as an intensifier
As an intensifier, 'schrecklich' (terribly) is often used in colloquial language. It can intensify both negative and positive adjectives.
EXAMPLE
Deine neue Frisur finde ich schrecklich schön!
I think your new hairstyle is terribly pretty!
Compare with
schrecklich vs sehr
very
'sehr' and 'schrecklich' can both intensify an adjective or adverb. 'sehr' is neutral and fits almost anywhere. 'schrecklich' as an intensifier also means 'very' or 'extremely', but it sounds stronger and often more emotional. It fits especially well when something seems unpleasant, tiring, or stressful. But be careful: 'schrecklich' can also mean 'terrible' in its own right. As an intensifier, it comes directly before another word, for example 'schrecklich müde' (terribly tired).
schrecklich
Nach dem langen Gespräch bin ich schrecklich müde.
After the long conversation, I am terribly tired.
sehr
Jonas ist heute sehr zufrieden mit seinem Einkauf.
Jonas is very happy with his purchase today.
In real life
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