Put the fear of God into somebody

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phrase

To scare someone very much, often to influence their behavior or attitudes.

His sudden angry outburst put the fear of God into us, and we quickly completed the task.
Visual representation of "put the fear of God into somebody" - To scare someone very much, often to influence their behavior or attitudes.

Often appears as...

  • put the fear of god into him
  • put the fear of god into them

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "put the fear of God into somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotionally Strong

Use it to describe fear so intense it may affect someone's deep emotions or beliefs.

Illustration for Emotionally Strong
After watching the horror movie alone at night, it put the fear of God into me.
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Influence Behavior

The phrase often implies using fear to make someone change their actions quickly.

Illustration for Influence Behavior
When she saw the consequences of not studying, it put the fear of God into her to work harder.
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Not Literal

It's not usually about religious fear, but rather a strong scare or a wake-up call.

Illustration for Not Literal
His near-miss car accident put the fear of God into him to drive more carefully.
Visual representation of the word "Put the fear of God into somebody"

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