terrible和terrific的含义用法有何不同,如何区分?

题目

terrible和terrific的含义用法有何不同,如何区分?
我看一本英文的讲阅读理解的书,里面提到Using facts to support opinions.举的例子是假如有两种对James的评价：
James is a terrific boss.和
James is a terrible boss.
有人认为是terrific boss.论据是He always asks us how we're doing.He lets us leave early or come in late when we have to take care of our children等等.显然terrible意为好的方面.
有人认为是terrible boss.论据是I really don't like him.He just cant't get along with people.And he has stupid ideas about politics.显然terrible意为坏的方面.
可是,我查了下有道词典,乖乖,两个词的意思基本差不多,都有“可怕的”和“极好的”两个意思.
我就蒙圈了.

答案

是的,这两个词源自同一个拉丁词根 terr ,to frighten 的意思.原意主要都是用来表达 “程度” 上的极致；近似 “吓人的” 、“骇人的” 这类表述.仔细想想,中文在形容极好的时候也常听到 “他的手气简直吓人”、“他...