The term 'HOW AWFUL!' can be expressed in a variety of ways, using the crossword solutions ALAS (4 letters), ICK (3 letters), UGH (3 letters), OHNO (4 letters), and OHDEAR (6 letters). ALAS is an expression of sorrow or regret, ICK is an expression of disgust, UGH is an expression of frustration or annoyance, OHNO is an expression of surprise or dismay, and OHDEAR is an expression of distress or dismay. Together, these words express a sentiment of shock, horror, and dismay.