Overawe: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is made to feel excessively intimidated or frightened by someone or something that appears very powerful or capable. Often indicates a higher level of intimidation.

• The grandeur of the palace overawed the visitors.
• The sheer size of the army overawed the defenders.

Applicable when someone is made to feel frightened or nervous, specifically with the intention of making them less confident. Often carries a negative connotation.

• The bully's tactics were meant to intimidate the younger kids.
• Her sharp and aggressive tone was intended to intimidate her opponents.

Used when someone is made to feel intimidated or discouraged by something that appears challenging or difficult. Often indicates a feeling of being overwhelmed but not necessarily frightened.

• The steep climb did not daunt the experienced hikers.
• The amount of work left for the project was daunting for the team.

Appropriate when expressing a feeling of respect mixed with fear or wonder, usually inspired by something grand, powerful, or impressive.

• The children gazed in awe at the fireworks display.
• The scientist was in awe of the vastness of the universe.

Utilized when someone creates a strong and positive impact on another person, often in a way that evokes admiration or approval.

• She wanted to impress her boss with her presentation skills.
• The magician's tricks always impress the audience.

Used when someone is impressed and intimidated by someone or something's greatness or power.

• The majestic view of the mountains overawed the tourists
• The young player was overawed by the presence of his football idols

Used when someone or something causes intense fear, stronger than 'frighten' and 'scare' and often used in more serious contexts.

• The idea of speaking in public terrifies her
• The thought of losing a loved one can terrify anyone

Similar to 'frighten', often used in casual contexts to describe something that causes someone to feel fear or anxiety.

• The sudden barking of the dog scared me
• Horror movies are designed to scare their audience

A general term used when something causes fear or makes someone feel afraid, can be used in everyday situations.

• The loud noise frightened the baby
• Dark alleys at night can frighten people

Used in situations where someone is so scared that they are unable to move or think, often metaphorical.

• The sight of the giant spider petrified her
• The ghost story petrified the children