What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overawe
Example
The teacher's vast knowledge and experience overawed the students. [overawed: verb]
Example
The majestic beauty of the mountains overawed the visitors. [overawe: past tense]
intimidate
Example
The gang tried to intimidate the shopkeeper into giving them money. [intimidate: verb]
Example
The aggressive behavior of the dog intimidated the children. [intimidated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intimidate is more commonly used than overawe in everyday language. Intimidate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while overawe is less common and more formal, often used in literature or formal speeches.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between overawe and intimidate?
Overawe is typically associated with a formal and respectful tone, while intimidate is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.