# paralyzing

/ˈpɛɹəˌɫaɪzɪŋ/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/paralyzing
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

so scary or shocking that you cannot move, think, or act for a short time.

For teachers: causing a complete inability to move or act, usually because of intense fear, shock, or physical injury. Often used figuratively to describe doubt or fear that prevents decision or action.

## Examples

- Fear has a paralyzing effect on many people.
- She feels a paralyzing fear before job interviews and struggles to answer even simple questions.
- The city faces a paralyzing traffic jam after the storm, with emergency vehicles unable to reach flooded streets for hours.

## Synonyms

petrifying

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; also used after linking verbs like 'be' or 'feel'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.