lurid
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “lurid” mean?
adjective.very vivid in color, especially so as to create an unpleasantly harsh or unnatural effect.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in contexts related to art, literature, or descriptions of sensational events. It emphasizes an exaggerated or shocking quality that evokes strong emotional reactions, distinguishing it from words like "vivid," which may not carry the same negative connotation.
Common Confusions
Lurid implies an intense and shocking quality that evokes discomfort, while vivid usually suggests a bright and lively color without the negative connotation.
Do not choose lurid if the context emphasizes subtlety or softness rather than very vivid color, especially so as to create an unpleasantly harsh or unnatural effect.
Example Sentences
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The accident was described with lurid detail.
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Some paperback novels have lurid covers.
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The tabloid ran a lurid story on the front page.