straszne

Straszne is a Polish word that functions as an adjective meaning terrible, frightening, or scary. It is commonly used to describe events, objects, or situations that induce fear or strong negative emotion, as well as to convey a high degree of severity. In everyday language it can appear in phrases such as straszne wieści (terrible news) or straszny film (a scary movie).

Etymology and linguistic notes

Straszne derives from the verb straszyć, which means to frighten, and is related to the noun strach, meaning fear. The term belongs to the broader family of words built from fear-related roots in Polish and is used across both formal and informal registers. It often appears in both literal and figurative contexts, where the sense of awe, danger, or intensity is present.

Usage and nuances

In Polish, straszne can describe tangible threats, such as desecrated places or dangerous situations, as well as emotional or moral judgments, e.g., straszne nieszczęście (a terrible calamity) or straszne zachowanie (horrendous behavior). The related adverb strasznie emphasizes degree, as in “to strasznie wolno” (it’s terribly slow) or “to strasznie smakuje” (it tastes terrible). The word is widespread in literature, media, and everyday speech, and it can carry a tone that ranges from alarming to exaggerated, depending on context.

See also

Related terms include the base adjective straszny and the noun strach. The concept is linked to Polish expressions of fear, danger, and moral evaluation, and has parallels in many languages that use similar fear-derived roots.