
Frighten
Intensity Varies
Frighten can mean slightly scared to very scared, depending on context.

The spooky story didn't really frighten me, just made me a bit uneasy.
Not Always Real
Frighten doesn't require a real threat, imagined ones work too.

She was frightened by the shadows, even though they were harmless.
Physical Response
Being frightened can cause a physical reaction, like jumping or screaming.

He was so frightened that he leapt from his seat.
Compare with
AlarmDauntIntimidatePetrifyScareShockStartleTerrify
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