inspires fear

USAGE SUMMARY

"inspires fear" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when describing the emotions that a certain situation, person, or thing elicits. For example, "The thundering roar of the storm inspired fear in the crowd."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

And if you prefer nonreligious language you could say that the lingering presence of nature red in tooth and claw that we carry with us from our evolutionary development gives us the capacity to strike out violently when we encounter a fearful difference — when we encounter a difference that inspires fear.

The New Yorker

It inspires fear.

The New York Times

White skin inspires fear.

The New York Times - Books

Understandably, it inspires fear.

The Washington Post

She basically inspires fear in her brother.

The New Yorker

"How light is a miracle, but it inspires fear.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Russia has long inspired fear in the West, but as the authors argue, Russia is fearful as well.

Stanford University

I want to inspire fear.

The New York Times - Books

Kidnappers want to inspire fear and hatred.

The Guardian

Even the condoms themselves inspire fear.

The New York Times

Today the border continues to inspire fear.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "inspires fear", consider the intensity of the fear you wish to convey. Words like "terror" or "dread" can be used for stronger emotions.

Common error

Avoid constructing sentences where the subject receiving the fear is unclear. For instance, instead of "Fear is inspired", specify who or what "inspires fear".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inspires fear" functions as a predicate in a sentence, describing the effect that a subject (person, object, situation) has on others by causing them to feel fear. Ludwig provides many examples showcasing its use in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inspires fear" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something or someone that causes fear. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely employed across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and academia, as shown by Ludwig's examples. When using "inspires fear", consider alternatives such as "provokes fear" or "arouses terror" to fine-tune the intensity of the emotion conveyed. Ensure clarity by specifying what or who is inspiring the fear. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for professional and descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provokes fear

Replaces "inspires" with "provokes", indicating a similar causation of fear.

arouses terror

Substitutes "fear" with "terror", implying a more intense level of fear.

generates apprehension

Uses "generates" and "apprehension" to convey a sense of causing anxiety or unease.

instills dread

Replaces "fear" with "dread", suggesting a feeling of great fear or aversion.

creates intimidation

Focuses on the effect of causing someone to feel intimidated.

fosters anxiety

Suggests a gradual development of anxiety.

breeds unease

Implies that the process of causing fear is like a biological proliferation.

prompts trepidation

Replaces "fear" with "trepidation", indicating a state of alarm or dread.

causes fright

A more direct and simple way of saying something creates fear.

elicits alarm

Similar to provokes fear, but with an emphasis on a sudden feeling of fear.

FAQs

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

You can use "inspires fear" to describe a person, object, or situation that causes fear in someone. For example, "The dictator's reputation "inspires fear" in the populace."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "inspires fear"?

Alternatives include "provokes fear", "arouses terror", or "generates apprehension" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "inspires fear in"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. For example, "The unknown "inspires fear in" many people."

What is the difference between "inspires fear" and "instills fear"?

"Inspires fear" suggests a more immediate or surface-level reaction, while "instills fear" implies a deeper, more lasting effect. For example, a horror movie "inspires fear", while a traumatic experience "instills fear".