Intimidate

To intimidate means to instill fear or apprehension in someone, often through threats, aggressive behavior, or an overwhelming presence. This can occur in various contexts, such as personal relationships, workplaces, or even in public settings. The intention behind intimidating behavior is usually to gain control, assert dominance, or manipulate others into submission or compliance. Intimidation can be both verbal and non-verbal and can have lasting psychological effects on the targeted individual.

Intimidate meaning with examples

• During the meeting, the manager attempted to intimidate his employees by raising his voice and making threats regarding their job security. This atmosphere of fear made it difficult for anyone to speak up and share their ideas, ultimately stifling creativity and collaboration within the team.
• At school, some students use bullying tactics to intimidate their peers into complying with their demands. This behavior can lead to severe emotional distress for those being targeted, making them feel isolated and helpless in an environment that should be supportive.
• In the courtroom, it is critical for witnesses to feel safe and protected from those who might attempt to intimidate them. Legal protections are in place to ensure that individuals can testify without fear of retribution or coercion from the accused or their associates.
• The presence of large, aggressive dogs can intimidate smaller animals and some people. Owners must be mindful of their pets' behavior, as it can lead to terrified reactions from those who are already uncomfortable around dogs, which can be distressing for both the animal and the individual.
• In sports, some players may try to intimidate their opponents through physical play or trash talk. This psychological tactic is often used to gain a psychological edge and can influence the performance and confidence of the other players on the field.