frighten

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In his speech to young people, the prime minister said he did not want to "frighten" his audience or put pressure on them.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

The risk of similar consequences might be enough to frighten off many providers.

From Slate • Feb. 21, 2026

Sanctions still hurt the targeted country, but they no longer frighten the market, especially if loosely enforced.

From Barron's • Nov. 20, 2025

My theory is it’s a tribute to the veil Karloff sported during lunch breaks, so as not to frighten any pregnant secretaries on the Universal lot.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 16, 2025

He hoped his English sounded like Olanna’s; he hoped, too, that his affectation would frighten this soldier into not asking him any more questions.

From "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie