Frighten off
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Threatening Tone
Use 'frighten off' to describe actions that are hostile or aggressive enough to repel someone.
His angry shouting managed to frighten off the curious bystanders.
Pro Tip 2/3Active Deterrence
'Frighten off' implies a deliberate action to make others avoid a person or place.
The guard dog was trained to frighten off trespassers.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Sometimes 'frighten off' is used figuratively, meaning to discourage without causing literal fear.
Complex regulations tend to frighten off small business owners.
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