appalled - Master This Word
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appalled Word Meanings
- causing shock or dismay
- extremely bad or unpleasant
- terrifying
appalled Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
appalled Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈpɔːl/
US
/əˈpɔl/
appalled Word Etymology
appall = ad- (to) + pall (to make pale); from Latin 'pallere' (to be pale, to grow pale). Imagine someone looking pale in horror, which corresponds to their shock.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Appall is a formal, strong verb meaning to cause shock or dismay, often by something morally wrong, extremely bad, or frightening. It goes beyond mere surprise or disappointment and implies a deep, visceral reaction. In use, you can say a tragedy appalls the public, a crime can appall observers, or a decision appalls many stakeholders. The subject who is appalled is typically a person or group; the thing that appalls is the thing that provokes the reaction. The word is more intense than 'shock' or 'upset' and is commonly used in journalism, literature, and serious discussion.
Usage Reminders
- Use appall for strong, moral outrage; it is transitive and takes by/at; not for mild disappointment; common in journalism and literature; can say 'was appalled by/at' the situation
Common Misconceptions
- It means merely 'to shock' in a casual sense
- You can use it with anyone you like, regardless of formality
- It's interchangeable with 'horrify' in all contexts
- You can say 'appalled of' something
- It only describes emotions of the viewer, not the thing itself
Thinking Differences
English tends to reserve appall for moral outrage or extreme circumstances and often prefers a formal register; learners may overgeneralize to any surprise and mix with 'shock' or 'horrify'.
Learning Tips
- Remember appall is stronger than shock or upset
- Pair with 'by/at' to show the source of the shock
- Use in formal writing or journalism
- Avoid casual or humorous contexts
- Compare with 'horrify' for moral outrage
- Practice passive construction: The news appalled the nation
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