Synonyms for

Intimidating

Verb / ˌɪˈntɪmɪˌdeɪtɪŋ / Another word for intimidating — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

causing someone to feel frightened or nervous, often because the person seems powerful or impressive

Synonyms & similar words

daunting intimidate restrain frightening scary daunting terrifying menacing threatening chilling hair-raising spine-tingling awe-inspiring impressive formidable overwhelming dreadful horrible fearsome petrifying tremendous alarming appalling

Synonyms by register

Formal

daunting overawing disconcerting frightening

Informal

scary off-putting creepy spooky

Literary

terrible dreadful dire

Antonyms

encouraging comforting reassuring welcoming approachable friendly calming

Common collocations

  • intimidating presence
  • intimidating figure
  • intimidating prospect
  • intimidating task
  • intimidating atmosphere
  • intimidating display
  • intimidating effect

Word family

noun intimidation
verb intimidate
adjective intimidating
adverb intimidatingly

Usage note

Often used to describe something that seems difficult or overwhelming to face. While it can imply fear, it more commonly suggests a sense of being overawed by size, power, or difficulty.

Example sentences

  1. The dark forest at night can be intimidating.
  2. The bullies at school were very intimidating.
  3. The big, loud truck was intimidating to the small car.
  4. The tall, muscular wrestler was very intimidating to his opponents.
  5. The strict teacher was very intimidating to the students.

Quotes

  • Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else. - Sara Blakely
  • If you are insecure, guess what? The rest of the world is too. Do not overestimate the competition and underestimate yourself. You are better than you think. - T. Harv Eker
  • I've always been intimidated by the fear of embarrassing myself. I have this need to be overly perfect. - Emma Watson

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