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fearful
/ˈfɪəfəl/
When used to describe a person's feelings, "fearful" often means being worried that something bad will happen in the future. When used to describe a thing or a situation (like a 'fearful storm'), it means the thing is scary or intense. In this context, it is similar to saying something is 'terrible' or 'frightening'. In some older or very formal writing, "fearful" can be used as an intensifier to mean 'extreme,' such as a 'fearful amount of work,' though this is less common in modern daily conversation.
💬Casual Conversation
David's heading your way. I'm fearful he'll dump that restyle on you.
Omg stop. I'm literally about to clock out.
Meanings
Feeling afraid; anxious or apprehensive.
"She was fearful that the storm would damage her garden."
Causing fear; formidable or terrifying.
"The hikers were faced with a fearful climb up the sheer cliff face."