Vocabulary Spotlight
Daunting
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Intimidating or discouraging; challenging to the point of causing fear or apprehension.
“The climb to the mountain peak seemed daunting to the inexperienced hikers.”
Pronunciation
[ˈdɔːntɪŋ]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Overwhelming
Discouraging
Frightening
Formidable
Antonyms
Comforting
Assuring
Reassuring
Welcoming
Related Words
Daunt (verb)
Word Origin
“Daunting” comes from the Middle English *daunten*, meaning “to tame or subdue,” which eventually evolved to mean discouraging or intimidating.
Word Family
Verb: Daunt – To intimidate or discourage.
Adjective: Daunting – Describing something intimidating or challenging.
Adjective: Dauntless – Showing determination and fearlessness.
Mnemonics
Think of “daunting” as “don’t + daring”—something so challenging that it discourages daring attempts.
Alternatively: Picture a “daunting” task as one that taunts, feeling as if it’s too tough to tackle.
Industry-specific Usage
Education
In education, a daunting assignment may seem overwhelming to students, often requiring guidance to overcome.
Business
In business, a daunting project might be highly challenging, needing significant resources or expertise.
Sports
In sports, facing a daunting opponent can feel intimidating, often motivating athletes to prepare thoroughly.
In Context
“Daunting” captures the sense of a task or experience that feels intimidating due to its scale, difficulty, or unknowns.
In day-to-day contexts, daunting challenges are those that initially discourage us, though they can be rewarding to overcome.
In motivational settings, daunting experiences are often redefined as “opportunities for growth” to inspire resilience.