terror - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
terror Word Meanings
- extreme fear
- a state of intense fear or dread
- violence or threats used to instill fear
terror Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
terror Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtɛrə/
US
/ˈtɛrər/
terror Word Etymology
Root: terror = terrere (to frighten). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a shadowy figure that invokes fear, as terror often hides in the unknown.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I move closer to the window, hands steady on the sill. A distant siren blares and I slow my breath, letting my guard shift. The streetlight pours a jagged line of shadow across the room and my skin tightens as I hold still. Terror settles in, and I learn to keep watching, to set my nerves for whatever might come next.
Real Context
Terror refers to a feeling of extreme fear and to violent acts meant to intimidate or frighten people. In everyday speech you might feel terror after a sudden accident or read about a frightening event, and you can say that a situation is ‘one of terror’ when it feels dangerous and overwhelming. In news and politics, the word is used to describe deliberate acts of violence intended to spread fear, as in terrorist attacks or a climate of terror. The word is strong and mood-heavy, and learners must distinguish personal fear from organized violence, and decide when 'terror' is more intense than 'fear' or 'horror'.
Usage Reminders
- Be precise about intensity
- Distinguish personal fear from public violence
- Note collocations like terrorist, terrorism, state of terror
- Use be in terror of/at for extreme fear about a future event
- Avoid using terror for everyday worries or minor fears
- Remember 'terror' is not simply 'horror' or 'scare'
Common Misconceptions
- terror is the same as fear in all contexts
- terror only refers to random fear, never political violence
- terror can be used for everyday worries
- terror is a casual mood, not a strong emotion
- terror and horror are interchangeable in news
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat terror as either acute personal fear or as a collective political threat, with clear collocations (terrorist, terrorism, state of terror). Learners often overextend terror to mild worries.
Learning Tips
- Compare with fear and horror to gauge intensity
- Notice collocations (terrorist, terrorism, state of terror)
- Differentiate personal fear from societal violence
- Use be in terror of/at for strong future worry
- Read news with a critical eye to see context
- Practice pronunciation of the stressed syllable TEAR-or
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'terror'?
A.Fear
B.Happy
C.Eat
D.Run
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'terror' correctly?
A.The sun is shining beautifully today.
B.The roller coaster was a terror to ride.
C.She felt terror after winning the lottery.
D.He terror the delicious cake.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is the most similar word to 'terror'?
A.Horror
B.Joy
C.Sleep
D.Laugh
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'terror'?
A.Peace
B.Excitement
C.Calm
D.Anger
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'terror'?
A.The hiker encountered a bear during her hike.
B.The children were playing happily in the park.
C.He was calm while giving a presentation.
D.She felt exhilarated after skydiving.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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