intimidating gaze

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intimidating gaze" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look or stare that causes fear or apprehension in others. Example: "As she entered the room, her intimidating gaze made everyone fall silent, unsure of what to expect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I maintained what I hoped was an intimidating gaze.

The Guardian - Travel

Somewhere between a starter of roasted beet and horseradish ravioli drizzled with pungent arugula pesto, and a main course of tender halibut, pan-seared to a light crisp, I almost forgot that I was dining beneath the gorgeous, if slightly intimidating, gaze of multiple stained-glass windows.

The New York Times - Travel

Hidden among the trees, away from the intimidating gaze of all the cool kids, it's more peaceful than traditional parks – giving you the room to attempt things you'd normally avoid.

Independent

Instead of meeting her intimidating gaze, my eye is drawn lower, to her shirt, which is on the brink of rupturing under pressure from two iron boobs that alternately reveal themselves as she turns left and right.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Now, after injuries, he is looking older than his 29 years, his trademark furrowed brow sitting under a thinning thatch, the bandana not so rakishly piratical as it once was, the muscular top-spin forehand falling a little shorter inside the court, the fierce gaze not so intimidating.

The Guardian - Sport

He wore the tin crown of political kingpin with relish: a jowly, obese man with heavy eyelids, fingers stained yellow from unfiltered Camels, a rumbling voice and bespectacled gaze that many found intimidating.

The New York Times

For many tourists in Paris, ordering a glass of wine can often be intimidating, an embarrassing collision with a heavy, leather-bound menu and the haughty gaze of the sommelier.

The New York Times - Travel

Even intimidating.

The New Yorker

Pretty intimidating.

The New Yorker

Why intimidating?

The Guardian - Film

'Scary, intimidating.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intimidating gaze" to describe a look that specifically aims to make someone feel fearful, apprehensive, or subordinate. It's more potent than a simple stern look and implies a deliberate intention.

Common error

Avoid using "intimidating gaze" to describe situations that are merely serious or require attention. The phrase carries a strong connotation of menace and should only be used when that feeling is genuinely present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimidating gaze" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "intimidating" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "gaze". It describes a specific type of look. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intimidating gaze" is a grammatically correct and usable term to describe a look intended to cause fear or apprehension. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is well-formed and appropriate for use in written English. While not a highly frequent phrase, with just a few examples from news and media sources, it effectively conveys a specific type of stare designed to dominate or frighten. Consider alternatives such as "menacing stare" or "fearsome look" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Ensure you reserve its use for contexts where the intention to intimidate is clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

menacing stare

Focuses on the threatening aspect of the look.

threatening look

Highlights the potential for harm or danger.

fearsome look

Emphasizes the fear-inducing quality of the appearance.

piercing glare

Highlights the intensity and directness of the look.

stern expression

Refers to a serious and uncompromising facial expression.

commanding presence

Shifts focus to the overall impression of authority and control.

domineering glance

Implies an attempt to control or subdue through a look.

hawkish look

Draws a comparison to the sharp, predatory gaze of a hawk.

icy stare

Suggests a cold, emotionless, and potentially hostile look.

disapproving look

Indicates a look of disapproval or censure.

FAQs

How to use "intimidating gaze" in a sentence?

You can use "intimidating gaze" to describe a look that makes someone feel fearful or apprehensive. For example: "The boss fixed him with an intimidating gaze, and he knew he was in trouble."

What can I say instead of "intimidating gaze"?

You can use alternatives like "menacing stare", "fearsome look", or "piercing glare" depending on the context.

What does "intimidating gaze" mean?

The phrase "intimidating gaze" refers to a look or stare that is intended to make someone feel afraid, nervous, or lacking in confidence.

What's the difference between "intimidating gaze" and "stern look"?

While both phrases describe serious expressions, an "intimidating gaze" implies a deliberate attempt to instill fear or unease, while a "stern look" simply conveys disapproval or seriousness without necessarily aiming to frighten.