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

Johnson had hoped that running noisy appliances — the dishwasher and the laundry spin cycle — would scare the bear away, but all the noise managed to do was frighten his cat.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2025

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

From Barron's • Nov. 20, 2025

You do all your favorite skills, with names like “angel” and “ankle drop,” names that sometimes frighten you when you’re on the ground.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith