What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intimidating
Example
The job interview was intimidating, but I tried my best to stay calm. [intimidating: adjective]
Example
The thought of speaking in front of a large audience is intimidating. [intimidating: gerund or present participle]
scary
Example
The horror movie was too scary for me to watch. [scary: adjective]
Example
It's scary to think about the consequences of not wearing a seatbelt while driving. [scary: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scary is more commonly used than intimidating in everyday language. Scary is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while intimidating is less common and often used in specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between intimidating and scary?
Both intimidating and scary can be used in formal and informal contexts, but intimidating may be more appropriate in professional or academic settings due to its connotation of challenge or difficulty.
