Frightening: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is useful when discussing situations that specifically cause fear or make you feel afraid. It's a general term for something that induces fear.

• The movie was so frightening that I had to cover my eyes during some scenes.
• Thunderstorms can be quite frightening for young children.

This term is often used in more casual or colloquial speech, describing things that cause fear in a straightforward and simple manner.

• That horror movie was really scary!
• This old abandoned house looks scary at night.

This word is best used when describing something that causes extreme fear or horror. It conveys a stronger and more intense emotion than 'frightening' or 'scary'.

• The experience of being lost in the woods at night was terrifying.
• The news of the earthquake was terrifying for the residents.

This word is appropriate in situations where something causes sudden concern or worry rather than direct fear. It’s often used when there is an element of surprise or unexpectedness.

• The rapid spread of the disease is alarming health officials worldwide.
• An alarming number of students were absent from school today.

Use this word when describing a task or challenge that appears difficult to deal with or intimidating. It suggests that the situation may overwhelm someone due to its scale or complexity.

• The idea of moving to a new country alone is quite daunting.
• Starting a new job in a completely different field can be daunting.