Scary: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that causes fear, typically more casually or informally. Suitable for general conversations.

• That horror movie was really scary.
• Walking home alone at night can be scary.

Used to describe something that induces fear or dread, usually on an emotional level. Commonly used in personal experiences or dramatic events.

• The thought of losing my job is frightening to me.
• It was a frightening experience to see the house on fire.

Used to describe something that causes extreme fear. It is a stronger word compared to 'scary' and 'frightening', often used in very intense situations.

• She had a terrifying encounter with a bear while hiking.
• The idea of jumping out of a plane is terrifying to me.

Used to describe something that causes sudden anxiety or concern. Often used in news or reports.

• The alarming increase in crime rates has everyone worried.
• It is alarming how quickly the disease is spreading.

Used to describe something that causes fear or is frightening. Often applied to movies, stories, or situations that provoke dread.

• That movie was really scary; I couldn't sleep afterward.
• It's a bit scary walking through the forest at night.

Used to describe someone who is shy or lacking in confidence. Often refers to a personal trait rather than a temporary state.

• The timid child hid behind his mother's legs.
• He is too timid to ask questions in class.

Used to describe someone who is anxious or uneasy about something that may happen. Can be a long-term feeling or related to a specific event.

• She felt nervous before giving her first big presentation.
• I'm always nervous before a job interview.

Used to describe someone who is easily startled or quick to react with fear or nervousness. Often describes a temporary state.

• After watching the horror movie, she was quite jumpy all evening.
• He's been jumpy ever since he heard the strange noises downstairs.

Used to describe something that causes fear or fright, often in a general or exaggerated sense.

• The haunted house was really scary
• That movie about ghosts is so scary!

Used when something disturbs your peace of mind or makes you feel uneasy, not necessarily causing fear but rather a sense of discomfort.

• The news reports were unsettling
• It was unsettling to find the doors open when I got home

Used when something causes a feeling of confusion or discomfort, typically because it is unexpected or out of the ordinary.

• The sudden change in his behavior was disconcerting
• It was disconcerting to hear about the company's unexpected changes

Used to describe something that makes someone feel nervous or a bit scared, creating a sense of unease.

• The dark, empty street was unnerving
• Her intense stare was unnerving to everyone in the room