intimidating eyes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intimidating eyes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's eyes that evoke fear or apprehension in others, often in a figurative sense. Example: "As she entered the room, her intimidating eyes made everyone fall silent, unsure of what to expect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Timothy Olyphant has quite a pair of intimidating eyes on him.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But then as part of dismantling the ideology, he began to think the opposite of the incel ideology and that he didn't want to make a woman feel intimidated by eye contact.

Vice

No matter if large eyespots are intimidating because of eye-mimicry (Blest 1957) or due to their mere conspicuousness (Stevens 2005), we would expect similar responses from a wide range of predators (including nonsyntopic ones) that share similar lifestyles.

Behavioral Ecology

It will make them self-conscious, so at least look people at the eyebrows if you find eye-to-eye contact intimidating.

WikiHow

The counsellor was a nun, ancient to my young eyes and intimidating – in full habit.

The Guardian - Opinion

And when she goes on screen she plays this callous, powerful, intimidating persona and her eyes just go straight through you!" TV Week said that they have been "desperate" to see Neighbours cast a new female villain and that their prayers had been answered when Badler joined the cast as Diana.

Wikipedia

Through her eyes it was intimidating and alienating.

The New Yorker

"That dog is intimidating the sheep with his eyes," said an approving Tom Trent, a carpenter and one of the finalists.

The New York Times

One magistrate said it had opened her eyes to how intimidating the process can be and said that in future she would visit the holding cells to speak to prisoners before they come into court.

The Guardian

Making too much eye contact can be intimidating.

WikiHow

If you're looking to assert your power, keep in mind that constant eye contact can be intimidating.[10].[10]

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intimidating eyes" to describe a character's physical trait when you want to convey a sense of power or dominance through their appearance.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "intimidating eyes" when describing character interactions. Instead, vary your descriptions with other sensory details or focus on the character's actions and dialogue to convey their intimidating presence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimidating eyes" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "eyes". It characterizes the eyes as possessing the quality of causing fear or apprehension. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intimidating eyes" is used to describe eyes that evoke fear or unease, functioning as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "eyes". Ludwig AI analysis indicates this phrase is grammatically correct, though its frequency is relatively rare. It appears in various contexts such as News & Media, Wiki and Science. When using this phrase, consider alternative descriptions such as "piercing gaze" or "powerful stare" to enhance your writing. One should take caution not to overuse the phrase especially in fictional dialogue descriptions. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding for writers seeking to employ "intimidating eyes" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

piercing gaze

Focuses on the intensity and directness of the look, implying a penetrating quality.

powerful stare

Emphasizes the strength and commanding nature of the look.

fearsome eyes

Highlights the fear-inducing quality of the eyes.

commanding eyes

Suggests the eyes have an authoritative and controlling presence.

penetrating eyes

Implies the eyes see beyond the surface and can discern hidden truths.

unsettling gaze

Focuses on the discomfort and unease caused by the look.

intense eyes

Highlights the high degree of concentration and emotion in the eyes.

threatening eyes

Directly suggests a sense of potential harm or danger.

domineering eyes

Implies the eyes are used to exert control and influence over others.

formidable gaze

Highlights the respect and awe inspired by the look.

FAQs

How can I describe someone's gaze that is not necessarily intimidating but still intense?

You can use phrases like "piercing gaze", "intense stare", or "focused look" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone is said to have "intimidating eyes"?

It generally means their eyes or gaze evoke a sense of fear, unease, or respect. The person may have a strong, direct, or penetrating look that makes others feel apprehensive or subordinate.

Are there positive connotations for "intimidating eyes"?

While generally negative, the phrase can sometimes imply a positive attribute like strength, authority, or unwavering resolve, particularly in fictional characters or leadership roles. The context is key.

What are some other physical characteristics that can contribute to someone appearing intimidating?

Besides "intimidating eyes", a person's height, posture, facial expressions (such as a scowl or furrowed brow), and tone of voice can all contribute to an intimidating presence.