skrekkelig

Skrekkelig is a Norwegian adjective that translates to "terrible," "horrible," or "frightful" in English. It is commonly used to describe something that evokes strong feelings of fear, disgust, or extreme unpleasantness. The word's intensity suggests a level of awfulness beyond mere badness; it implies a situation or object that is deeply disturbing or horrifying.

The etymology of "skrekkelig" is rooted in the Norwegian word "skrekk," meaning "terror" or "horror." This connection highlights the core meaning of the adjective, emphasizing a visceral reaction to something perceived as dreadful. It can be applied to a wide range of contexts, from describing a terrifying movie scene to a disastrous event or even a morally reprehensible act.

In everyday conversation, "skrekkelig" is used to convey a strong negative sentiment. For instance, one might describe a frightening experience as "skrekkelig" or express extreme disapproval of something by calling it "skrekkelig." The word carries a significant weight, indicating that the subject being described is not just bad, but truly awful in a way that can cause distress or alarm. Its usage is widespread in Norwegian literature, media, and casual speech.