Scary

Causing fear; frightening. Often implies a sense of immediate danger, threat, or the potential for harm, either physical or emotional. It can describe things, situations, or even thoughts and feelings that evoke anxiety, dread, or terror. The intensity of 'scary' can range from mild unease to profound horror, depending on the context and the individual's perception. It engages our primal instincts of self-preservation and can be a powerful tool in storytelling or entertainment.

Scary meaning with examples

• The abandoned house at the end of the street had a reputation for being scary. Local legends spoke of strange noises and flickering lights, making it a popular spot for teenage dares, though few ever ventured inside for fear of what they might find. Its dark windows always seemed to stare ominously.
• The storm clouds gathering overhead looked scary, promising a torrential downpour and potential lightning strikes. I hurried to find shelter, watching the wind whip the trees and worrying about the possibility of hail damage to my car. The whole situation filled me with a deep sense of unease.
• Watching the horror movie was genuinely scary. The suspenseful soundtrack and gruesome special effects kept me on the edge of my seat. Each jump scare had me screaming. I covered my eyes more than I would have liked. It gave me nightmares afterward.
• The idea of public speaking, especially for the first time, is incredibly scary to many people. Imagining making a fool of themselves in front of everyone causes panic and anxiety. Many find this is very mentally challenging and requires a lot of work to become confident.