To daunt means to make someone feel intimidated or apprehensive; to discourage or dishearten. It implies a challenge or threat that causes a loss of courage or confidence, leading to hesitation or even avoidance. The effect of being daunted can range from mild unease to severe fear, often stemming from perceived difficulty, risk, or opposition. The source of the daunting factor can vary widely, encompassing physical threats, psychological pressures, or the scale and complexity of a task. When something daunts someone, they might be less likely to act, perform or follow through.
Daunts meaning with examples
- The sheer scale of the project daunted the new team members. They felt overwhelmed by the long to-do list, budget limitations, and the tight deadlines. The thought of failing to deliver the expected results caused hesitation and fear of professional setback. The feeling of inadequacy initially stifled their enthusiasm, leading to some unproductive meetings as they struggled to devise the right strategy.
- The approaching storm daunted the sailors. The dark clouds and rising winds created a sense of dread, making them worried for their safety. The violent nature of the impending weather meant they faced possible peril, damage to the ship and the loss of equipment or even their lives. Their faces were worried as they made preparations. Some crew members started to doubt the capability of the vessel.
- The prospect of public speaking always daunted Sarah. The thought of a room full of eyes scrutinizing her filled her with dread. Her nerves got the better of her, as she remembered past poor speeches that had led to feelings of embarrassment and a lowered self-worth. She always imagined herself failing, and the overwhelming pressure made it difficult for her to even begin practicing.
- The complex legal jargon daunted many clients. The lengthy documents and the unfamiliar language created a barrier to understanding. People often felt they could not follow their arguments, or that they would miss key details. It made clients wary of proceeding, unsure if they could make informed decisions and worried about potential legal mishaps. The clients often preferred to seek legal support.
- The sheer physical demands of the climb daunted several of the hikers. The steep inclines and the treacherous terrain made them tired and short of breath. The distance to the top seemed insurmountable, leading some to consider turning back and accepting defeat. A combination of exhaustion and fear of the unexpected terrain made it difficult for many to maintain their pace.
Daunts Synonyms
alarm appall cow demoralize deter discourage dishearten frighten intimidate subdueDaunts Antonyms
comfort embolden encourage enliven excite galvanize inspire invigorate reassure sootheDaunts Crossword Answers
4 Letters
AWES COWS