Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[KatrinaLi]

Dear teachers,
In my past experience, I know the word "hell" usually use in a negative way. For example, �go to hell� or �to hell with him/her� something rude or bad. But recently I watched a movie called "My Fat Big Greek Wedding". There is an expression, "You missed a hell of a party the other night." We consider "a hell of" means great or worthwhile. Does that mean the word �hell� can be used in both positive and negative way? And would you kindly provide some other examples of when and under what situations can we use it in a positive way? Does it often use in this way? Thanks for your help.

Serenely,
Katrina

[Christine123]

Your observation is correct. Generally the word "hell" implies something negative, although in some cases, such as your example of saying "hell of a party," it is used to mean something positive. "Hell" is considered by many to be a curse word. Curse words can take upon multiple meanings, and be used in mutiple gramatical forms. In your example, "hell" is simply being used to emphasize the excitment of the party.

[KatrinaLi]

Thanks for your reply!