The spelling of the phrase "dreadful toll" may seem straightforward, but the pronunciation can be tricky. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be /ˈdrɛdfəl toʊl/. The "dr" sound is pronounced as a voiced alveolar plosive, the "e" is pronounced as a short vowel sound, the "dful" is pronounced with a schwa sound in between the "d" and "f," and the "toll" is pronounced with a diphthong. Despite the difficult pronunciation, the meaning of the phrase is clear: a terrible cost or consequence.
The term "dreadful toll" refers to a significant and often devastating accumulation or effect of negative consequences or casualties resulting from a particular event, circumstance, or situation. It describes a grim and regrettable tally of damages, losses, or deaths related to a specific cause or incident.
The word "dreadful" carries the connotation of extreme fear, horror, or terror, emphasizing the severe or alarming nature of the toll. It suggests that the consequences or casualties are deeply distressing or appalling, instilling a sense of intense unease or foreboding. The term implies that the toll is not only significant but also exceptionally unfortunate or sorrowful, evoking sentiments of sadness, grief, or despair.
"Toll" in this context refers to the cumulative impact or cost of a particular event or occurrence. It suggests that there is a price, sacrifice, or burden associated with the consequences or losses endured. The term is often used metaphorically, likening the impact to the tolling of a church bell to mark a death, indicating the somber and solemn nature of the discomforting aftermath.
Overall, the phrase "dreadful toll" underscores the severity, magnitude, and distressing character of the consequences, emphasizing the significant negative impact or extensive sacrifice experienced due to a specific event or condition.
The word "dreadful toll" does not have a specific etymology since it is a combination of two separate words.
1. Dreadful: The word "dreadful" originated from the Old English word "drǣdful", which means "full of fear or dread". It is formed by combining "drǣd" (fear) and "-ful" (suffix indicating "full of"). Over time, it evolved into "dreadful" in Middle English and has since retained its meaning of something causing great fear or terror.
2. Toll: The word "toll" has its roots in Middle English from the 14th century, derived from the Old English word "tollian". It originally referred to an amount of money or goods paid for the privilege of passing through or using a road, bridge, or other public infrastructure.