What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
daunting
Example
The amount of work required for this project is daunting. [daunting: adjective]
Example
I find the idea of public speaking daunting. [daunting: gerund or present participle]
intimidating
Example
The new boss has an intimidating presence. [intimidating: adjective]
Example
I find the prospect of taking a math test very intimidating. [intimidating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intimidating is more commonly used than daunting in everyday language. Intimidating is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while daunting is less common and refers specifically to challenging tasks or situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between daunting and intimidating?
Both daunting and intimidating can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but daunting is slightly more formal due to its specific usage in describing challenging tasks or situations.
