A few days ago
Michelle

is it appropriate?

to use the word ‘hellish,’ in a formal essay on Jane Eyre?

idk it just fits, but then again looks a little weird as i hand it over to my teacher.

Top 10 Answers
A few days ago
Jarrett G

Favorite Answer

no slang
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A few days ago
neniaf
I think you could get away with it if you were really using it appropriately. For example, if you were talkng about hellish conditions in the steel factories, where it was inhumanly hot and unpleasant. If you just mean “bad”, it is used in a slangy way and would not be appropriate.
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A few days ago
Alan
“Hellish” has religious overtones, and may even offend some quaint people.

I would consider alternatives. Where’s my Thesaurus?

Nightmare, tormented, anguished…

If you want to get fancy, mention Tartarus. That’s the Greek version of hell, and Elysium was their heaven. Hades equates to Purgatory.

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A few days ago
Anonymous
Hmmm I don’t think so, it seems too informal.

How can u say that about Jane Eyre? That’s the best book ever!!!!!!

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A few days ago
Zen.Frank.
Yeah I don’t think that would be advisable. You want to avoid slang or anything even close to slang when writing a formal essay.
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A few days ago
Mandy
it depends on how you chose to use the word. but, i would say find another word. something more creative. it will look better than “hellish”
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A few days ago
Pete
Its a strong word, so it better be a something serious like a battle or some horrible place…

it isn’t like your saying something super special awesome….

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A few days ago
Mrs. SB Squarepants
I think it’s fine as long as you’re getting your point over and supporting main ideas.
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A few days ago
Anonymous
That’s hella cool.
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A few days ago
i know it all
i dont think thats the best thing to say
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