appalling
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “appalling” mean?
adjective.causing shock or dismay; horrific.
SAT Usage
The term often appears in contexts related to social issues, moral dilemmas, or historical events, emphasizing extreme negative reactions or ethical violations. It conveys a sense of outrage or deep disappointment, distinguishing itself from similar words like "unpleasant," which may indicate mild discomfort rather than a severe reaction.
Common Confusions
Appalling implies a shocking or horrific nature that provokes outrage, while unpleasant usually suggests a mild discomfort or irritation without the same level of severity.
Do not choose appalling if the context emphasizes mild disappointment or annoyance rather than causing shock or dismay; horrific.
Example Sentences
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The evidence put forth at the court appalled most of the jury.
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That was an appalling waste of money.
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The appalling conditions in the factory shocked the inspectors.