Ghastly Meaning in English
word
Definition
Extremely unpleasant, shocking, or frightening. Can describe something horrific in a serious way or something terrible in a more informal, exaggerated way.
Usage & Nuances
More common in British English than American. Often used with dramatic flair — 'ghastly weather', 'ghastly mistake'. It can also describe someone's pale, ill appearance: 'You look ghastly.' Stronger than 'awful' but less clinical than 'horrific'.
Example Sentences
The accident scene was absolutely ghastly.
basic
She made a ghastly mistake by sending the email to the wrong person.
basic
You look ghastly — are you feeling alright?
basic
The hotel was advertised as luxurious, but in reality it was absolutely ghastly.
natural
I had the most ghastly dream last night — I woke up in a cold sweat.
natural
The food was ghastly, but we were too polite to say anything.
natural