Out of a nightmare Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Used to describe a situation that is extremely unpleasant, frightening, or unreal, as if it came from a nightmare.
Usage & Nuances
This phrase is figurative and often used to exaggerate how bad or surreal a situation feels. Common with 'like', e.g. 'It was like something out of a nightmare.' More dramatic in tone than simply saying something is 'bad' or 'scary.'
Example Sentences
The dark, empty house looked out of a nightmare.
basic
Her experience in the storm felt out of a nightmare.
basic
The movie had monsters that seemed out of a nightmare.
basic
Their story sounds out of a nightmare—I can't believe it really happened.
natural
Last night's phone call was out of a nightmare—I hope I never get one like that again.
natural
The mess in the kitchen looked straight out of a nightmare after the party.
natural