What is intimidating? Pronunciation and usage in English

intimidating means . Learn how to pronounce and use intimidating through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of intimidating

intimidatingadjective

/ɪnˈtɪmɪdeɪtɪŋ//ɪnˈtɪmɪdeɪtɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "intimidating." It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (sounds like it's written out):

  • /ɪnˌtɪmɪˈdeɪtɪŋ/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

2. Syllable by Syllable:

  • in: Pronounced like the word "in" – /ɪn/ (short "i" sound)
  • ti: Pronounced like "tee" - /tɪ/ (short "i" sound)
  • mi: Pronounced like "me" - /mɪ/ (short "i" sound)
  • da: Pronounced like "dah" - /də/ (short "uh" sound – like the "a" in "about")
  • te: Pronounced like "tay" - /tɛ/ (short "e" sound - like the "a" in "hat")
  • ting: Pronounced like "ting" - /ɪŋ/ (the "ing" sound)

3. Putting it Together (with emphasis):

The emphasis (stress) is on the third syllable: mi - de - i - tat - ing

So, it sounds like this: in-TIM-i-dat-ing

4. Tips for Pronunciation:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

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  • Is there a particular part of the word you're finding difficult?

Usage and examples with the word intimidating in English

Let's break down how to use the word "intimidating" effectively in English. It's a powerful word that describes something that makes you feel afraid, nervous, or overwhelmed.

1. Core Meaning:

  • Definition: "Intimidating" means making someone feel afraid or nervous, often because of their size, power, or reputation. It suggests a feeling of being challenged or threatened.

2. How to Use It - Examples & Contexts:

  • Describing People:

    • "The lawyer's imposing stature and sharp gaze were intimidating to the defendant." (Size and presence)
    • "He had an intimidating manner, always speaking in a loud voice and correcting everyone." (Personality and behavior)
    • "Despite her youth, she exuded an intimidating confidence." (Confidence can sometimes be seen as intimidating.)

  • Describing Places/Situations:

    • "The dark forest and the howling wind were intimidating." (Atmosphere and environment)
    • "The sheer size of the stadium was intimidating before the game started." (Scale and imposing nature)
    • "Facing that mountain climb felt incredibly intimidating." (Challenge and difficulty)

  • Describing Actions/Events:

    • "His aggressive behavior felt intimidating to the new employee." (Behavior causing fear)
    • “The looming deadline was intimidating.” (A task or situation creating anxiety)

3. Key Phrases & Variations:

  • "He/She was intimidated by...": This is a common way to express that someone felt the effect of something intimidating.

    • "He was intimidated by her experience."
    • "She felt intimidated by the size of the project."

  • "An intimidating presence": Focuses on the impression someone makes.

  • "Intimidatingly...": Used to describe something in a way that emphasizes the feeling of intimidation.

    • "He spoke intimidatingly about his accomplishments."

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Daunting
  • Foreboding
  • Menacing
  • Threatening
  • Appalling
  • Overwhelming
  • Worrying

5. Important Nuances:

  • Subjectivity: What’s intimidating to one person might not be to another. It's about your feeling.

  • Intent: Sometimes intimidation is intentional (e.g., bullying), but it can also be unintentional (e.g., simply being very knowledgeable or powerful).

  • Tone: “Intimidating” often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a feeling of discomfort or fear.

Example Sentences Demonstrating Different Uses:

  • "The towering skyscraper was intimidating to first-time visitors." (Physical size)
  • "Her sharp, critical voice was intimidating, making it difficult for the team to share their ideas." (Behavior)
  • “The prospect of giving a public speech was intimidating, but she prepared thoroughly.” (Situation creating anxiety)
  • "The dark alleyway felt intimidating after sunset." (Atmosphere)

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a story, an email, an essay?)
  • What is the context you want to use "intimidating" in? (e.g., describing a person, a place, a situation?)

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