ENGLISH
REFERENCE

intimidating

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪnˈtɪmɪˌdeɪtɪŋ// UK //ɪntˈɪmɪdˌeɪtɪŋ// in·tim·i·dat·ing

adj. making you feel nervous or not confident because someone or something seems powerful, large, or difficult. You use this when a person or situation feels too big or strong for you to handle easily.

adj. causing fear, nervousness, or a lack of confidence in others; often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'feel' or 'seem'.


SIMPLE

The tall man looked very intimidating.

CONTEXTUAL

Her strict boss was intimidating to the new staff members.

COMPLEX

The sheer scale of the ancient cathedral was intimidating, yet its quiet interior offered a profound sense of peace.

Synonyms
Usage

Often used predicatively (e.g., 'she felt intimidating') or attributively (e.g., 'an intimidating presence').

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