Terrific vs. Wonderful: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Published on September 30, 2023
"Terrific" primarily indicates something causing terror in older contexts, but now often means "extremely good," while "wonderful" always denotes something inspiring delight or admiration.
Difference Between Terrific and Wonderful
"Terrific" and "wonderful" are both adjectives frequently used in modern English to express approval, admiration, or satisfaction. They are positive descriptors for events, things, or feelings. However, the nuances in their origins and applications provide distinct connotations.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
"Terrific" has an interesting evolution in the English language. Derived from the Latin word "terrificus," which means "causing terror," its earlier usage signified something terrifying. Over time, its meaning transformed, aligning more with something extraordinarily good or great. Thus, a movie could be terrific if it's impressively engaging.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
On the other hand, "wonderful" consistently carries a positive connotation, originating from the idea of something that evokes wonder. Its root, "wonder," refers to a state of amazement or admiration. When we describe something as wonderful, we're emphasizing its ability to inspire a sense of delight or awe. A scenic view, for instance, could be wonderful because of its breathtaking beauty.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
While both words can be used interchangeably in many contexts today, it's worth noting their unique histories. "Terrific," with its roots in terror, showcases the dynamic nature of language evolution, whereas "wonderful" maintains its consistently positive implications throughout its usage.
Nolan
Sep 30, 2023
Terrific vs. Wonderful Comparison Chart
Origin
Latin "terrificus" meaning "causing terror"
Related to "wonder," indicating amazement
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
Historical Connotation
Originally indicated something causing terror
Consistently positive, indicating delight or awe
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
Modern Usage
Indicates something extremely good or great
Describes something that inspires admiration or awe
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
Flexibility in Usage
Can be used broadly, from food to movies
Often used for experiences, sights, and feelings
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
Terrific vs. Wonderful Definitions
◉Wonderful
Admirable or very good; excellent or splendid
what a wonderful person she is.
had a wonderful time at the party.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Wonderful
Capable of eliciting wonder; astonishing
"The ... whale is one of the most wonderful animals in the world" (Charles Darwin).
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Wonderful
Surprisingly excellent; very good or admirable, extremely impressive.
They served a wonderful six-course meal.
What appears to be wonderful may turn out to be anything but.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Wonderful
Adapted to excite wonder or admiration; surprising; strange; astonishing.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Terrific
Very strong or intense; excessive, tremendous.
The car came round the bend at a terrific speed.
I've got a terrific hangover this morning.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Wonderful
extraordinarily good; used especially as intensifiers;
a fantastic trip to the Orient
the film was fantastic!
a howling success
a marvelous collection of rare books
had a rattling conversation about politics
a tremendous achievement
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Terrific
Extremely good; excellent, amazing.
I say! She's a terrific tennis player.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Terrific
Causing terror; adapted to excite great fear or dread; terrible; as, a terrific form; a terrific sight.
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Terrific
very great or intense;
a terrific noise
a terrific thunderstorm storm
fought a terrific battle
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
◉Terrific
extraordinarily good; used especially as intensifiers;
a fantastic trip to the Orient
the film was fantastic!
a howling success
a marvelous collection of rare books
had a rattling conversation about politics
a tremendous achievement
Muneeza Rehman
May 03, 2023
Terrific vs. Wonderful Frequently Asked Questions
Is wonderful always used in a positive context?
Yes, it denotes something that inspires admiration or delight.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
What's the historical meaning of terrific?
It originally meant "causing terror."
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
Which term relates more to amazement or awe?
Wonderful relates more closely to a sense of wonder.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
Is terrific stronger than great?
Often, it's used to emphasize something as beyond just great.
Henry
Sep 30, 2023
Can I use terrific to describe food?
Absolutely, indicating it's extremely delicious.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
Has the meaning of terrific changed over time?
Yes, from indicating terror to something extremely good.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
In what contexts are the terms most commonly interchangeable?
When describing positive experiences, emotions, or outcomes.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
How does wonderful relate to the term wonder?
Wonderful denotes something that evokes a feeling of wonder.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
Which word has a more consistent historical meaning?
Wonderful has maintained a consistently positive connotation.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
