B2adjectiveemotionspsychology
US/ˈpet.rə.faɪd/
UK/ˈpet.rɪ.faɪd/
so frightened that you cannot move or think
In context
I was petrified when the plane started shaking in the storm.
She is petrified of spiders and screams if she sees one.
The children stood petrified as the dog ran toward them.
Words that go with petrified
adjective + preposition
- petrified ofHe is petrified of public speaking.
- petrified with fearHe stood petrified with fear as the lights went out.
- petrified byI was petrified by the sudden noise at night.
adverb + adjective
- absolutely petrifiedI was absolutely petrified before the exam.
- utterly petrifiedShe was utterly petrified at the edge of the cliff.
- completely petrifiedThey were completely petrified by the noise.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I am petrifying of snakesCorrect: I am petrified of snakes