Scare into doing

phrasal verb

To frighten someone in order to make them do something.

The criminals scared the witnesses into not testifying.
Visual representation of "scare into doing" - To frighten someone in order to make them do something.

Often appears as...

  • scare someone into silence
  • scare into compliance
phrasal verb

To frighten someone in order to make them do something.

The criminals scared the witnesses into not testifying.
Visual representation of "scare into doing" - To frighten someone in order to make them do something.

Often appears as...

  • scare someone into silence
  • scare into compliance
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "scare into doing"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

The phrase often implies a power imbalance and manipulation.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The coach scared the players into extra practice with threats of benching.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

Using 'scare into doing' can evoke strong emotions like fear or anxiety.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The storm scared the tourists into leaving early.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Context Sensitivity

Before using, consider if it's appropriate for the situation, as it can sound harsh.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
He scared his little brother into giving up the remote.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

The phrase often implies a power imbalance and manipulation.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The coach scared the players into extra practice with threats of benching.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

Using 'scare into doing' can evoke strong emotions like fear or anxiety.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The storm scared the tourists into leaving early.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Context Sensitivity

Before using, consider if it's appropriate for the situation, as it can sound harsh.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
He scared his little brother into giving up the remote.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

The phrase often implies a power imbalance and manipulation.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The coach scared the players into extra practice with threats of benching.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

Using 'scare into doing' can evoke strong emotions like fear or anxiety.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The storm scared the tourists into leaving early.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Context Sensitivity

Before using, consider if it's appropriate for the situation, as it can sound harsh.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
He scared his little brother into giving up the remote.
Visual representation of the word "Scare into doing"

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