create fear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "create fear" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to cause or bring about fear in someone or something. You can use it in a sentence when describing actions or behaviors that make someone feel afraid or scared. Example: The horror movie was designed to create fear in its viewers, with its frightening imagery and suspenseful soundtrack.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're trying to create fear.

The New York Times

"This is only going to create fear".

The Guardian

"Terrorists create fear and intimidation through extreme violence.

The New Yorker

"It's purely a political wedge to create fear and hysteria".

The New York Times

The most powerful missives stoke doubt and create fear.

The New York Times

My fight instincts can create fear and shut down real discussion.

The New York Times

Most of my favorite Sue lines are designed to create fear, including, "You're dealing with children.

The New Yorker

Dr. Bennett said the state teachers' union had distorted the legislation to create fear.

The New York Times

They ruin lives, create fear and undermine people's trust in society and its institutions.

The Guardian

These dreadful extremists want to create fear in the minds of the community".

The Guardian

Because the purpose of that kind of violence is to create fear".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "create fear", consider the intensity of the emotion you want to convey. Words like "terror" or "unease" can offer different shades of meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "create fear" when a more neutral term like "raise concerns" or "generate awareness" would be more appropriate. Overusing emotionally charged language can weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "create fear" functions primarily as a verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and describes the action of causing or bringing about fear. It is commonly used to describe actions that induce fear in others.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "create fear" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as Ludwig AI confirms. It's employed to describe situations where fear is intentionally or unintentionally generated. Its usage spans across diverse domains, notably news, science, and general discussions. Choosing semantically related yet distinct alternatives like "instill fear" or "generate apprehension" enables more precise and nuanced writing. Remember to consider the context to avoid overusing such emotionally charged language. The phrase is a powerful tool when used judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instill fear

Focuses on gradually introducing fear into someone.

generate apprehension

Emphasizes a milder form of fear or anxiety.

provoke terror

Indicates a more extreme level of fear than the original phrase.

foster anxiety

Highlights the development of anxious feelings.

spark dread

Implies a sudden and intense feeling of fear.

inspire unease

Suggests a subtle feeling of discomfort or worry.

arouse trepidation

Implies a cautious anticipation of something frightening.

incite panic

Focuses on creating a widespread and uncontrollable fear.

trigger alarm

Indicates a sudden feeling of danger or threat.

sow seeds of doubt

Focuses on creating uncertainty and worry, indirectly leading to fear.

FAQs

How can I use "create fear" in a sentence?

You can use "create fear" to describe actions or situations that cause fear, such as "The dictator used propaganda to create fear among the population".

What are some alternatives to "create fear"?

You can use alternatives like "instill fear", "generate apprehension", or "provoke terror" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "create fear" or "generate fear"?

Both "create fear" and "generate fear" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice depends on the specific context and the desired tone. "Create fear" might imply a more deliberate action.

What's the difference between "create fear" and "incite panic"?

"Create fear" is a general term for causing fear, while "incite panic" specifically refers to causing widespread and uncontrollable fear or alarm.