"Horrendous" vs. "dreadful": distinctions in describing the terrible

What is similar?

Both "horrendous" and "dreadful" are adjectives used to describe something very bad, unpleasant, or shocking. They both express strong negative emotions and often relate to experiences, events, or things that cause fear, disgust, or dismay.

What is different?

"Horrendous" is usually stronger in intensity and often implies something shockingly bad, horrifying, or appalling, sometimes with a sense of moral outrage. "Dreadful" tends to mean very bad, unpleasant, or causing fear, but is slightly milder and more commonly used in everyday situations. Additionally, "dreadful" can sometimes be used in a lighter, exaggerated sense, while "horrendous" almost always refers to something truly severe.

Which one is more common?