Daunt

To discourage or intimidate someone, especially by making them feel less confident or hopeful. It implies a challenge, difficulty, or threat that causes someone to hesitate or become fearful. The feeling of being daunted can manifest as a loss of courage, a weakening of resolve, or an apprehension about facing a particular task or situation. It suggests a psychological barrier that must be overcome. Being daunted often involves a sense of the task being overwhelming or seemingly impossible, which subsequently can cause avoidance or giving up. This feeling can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, from facing public speaking to managing a crisis.

Daunt meaning with examples

• The sheer scale of the project threatened to Daunt the team, as the initial requirements felt insurmountable, casting a shadow over the prospect of a quick victory. Their project manager, however, remained steadfast in his encouragement. He focused on taking small steps.
• Facing the vast expanse of the wilderness and the perils it held, the early explorers were often daunted by their unfamiliar surroundings. They faced the risk of dangerous wildlife, unfamiliar weather and a lack of communication, which made their journeys extremely tough.
• The prospect of performing in front of a huge audience was enough to Daunt the young musician. The size of the hall and the expectations of the audience created a pressure that threatened to cause a stage fright
• The steep mountain incline and the harsh weather conditions did not Daunt the experienced climbers, who persevered through the challenges. Their years of training, equipment and preparation gave them the confidence they needed to achieve their aims.
• The complex legal procedures of their divorce felt like it was enough to Daunt them, leaving the couple both overwhelmed. Their lawyers were keen to simplify each step in the process, in a bid to calm the parties involved.