intimidation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "intimidation" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the word when you are referring to the act of inspiring fear or creating an atmosphere of unease and insecurity in someone. For example, "The bully often used intimidation tactics to get what he wanted from his classmates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He said that although none of the defendants were themselves intimidating towards staff, they were aware, he said, that methods of intimidation were being used and refused to disassociate themselves from the action by leaving the store.

The Guardian

Referred to in court as D, she entered a not guilty plea to a charge of intimidation last week while wearing a niqab after the judge backed down from a previous decision that she would have to show her face to be properly identified.

The Guardian

A survey by the New York-based press freedom watchdog reveals a global pattern of intimidation against political and satirical cartoonists.

The Guardian

Brian Messenger, a Tory council candidate in Margate, said his party had received complaints of verbal intimidation of voters outside some polling stations.

The Guardian

These men have the wisdom of ages of Labour struggles against low pay, workplace intimidation and the evils of Thatcherism.

The Guardian - Opinion

A detailed affidavit, written by Andrew McAleer, alleged Rice engaged in a "pattern of intimidation and violence" between 2012 and 2013 against the McAleers following a custody dispute between Karyn McAleer and Rice, who have a young child together from their previous relationship.

The Guardian

Similar protests on the mainland would be unthinkable – even organisers of seemingly benign demonstrations are subject to extreme intimidation, even prosecution.

The Guardian

The move unnerved civil rights campaigners in the a deeply segregated stated with an ugly history of voter intimidation.

The Guardian

Intimidation was another problem raised, and one sex worker cited "clients that mess with your head" as a problem.

The Guardian

There was also a significant personal cost, as he and his family were subject to violent threats and intimidation.

The Guardian

The local commissioner, John Tap Puot, said government intimidation against journalists and civilians was ongoing and there weren't enough medicines, doctors and water available.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal or political contexts, use "intimidation" to accurately describe actions that undermine free will and create fear.

Common error

Avoid using "intimidation" when describing simple disagreements or assertive behavior that doesn't involve a clear power dynamic and intent to create fear. "Intimidation" implies a deliberate attempt to instill fear or control through threats or coercion.

Linguistic Context

The word "intimidation" functions primarily as a noun, referring to the act of making someone afraid or deterring them through threats. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "intimidation" is a frequently used and grammatically correct noun referring to the act of instilling fear or deterring action through threats. Ludwig AI validates its proper use. As evidenced by numerous examples from Ludwig, "intimidation" is primarily found within News & Media, signaling its relevance in describing real-world events. While its usage is straightforward, it's essential to differentiate it from similar terms like "harassment" and "coercion", and to avoid applying it to situations lacking a clear intent to cause fear. Therefore, "intimidation" serves as a potent descriptor in contexts involving power dynamics and the suppression of individual rights.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bullying

This term refers more specifically to repeated aggressive behavior intended to dominate or subjugate.

coercion

Coercion involves compelling someone to act against their will through threats or other forms of pressure.

harassment

This term describes persistent and unwanted actions that create a hostile or offensive environment.

menace

This refers to a declaration of an intention to inflict harm or punishment.

duress

Implies constraint illegally exercised, forcing someone to do something against their will.

threat

This involves an expression of intention to inflict evil, injury, or damage.

pressure

This involves the use of persuasive techniques or demands to influence someone's decisions or actions.

browbeating

This indicates intimidating someone with stern or abusive words or behavior.

terrorizing

This involves creating a state of extreme fear or panic in someone.

scare tactics

This suggests the use of methods designed to frighten someone into a particular action or belief.

FAQs

How can "intimidation" be used in a sentence?

"Intimidation" is typically used to describe actions that induce fear or deter behavior through threats. For example, "The witness refused to testify due to fear of "intimidation"."

What words can I use instead of "intimidation"?

Depending on the context, you can use "bullying", "coercion", "harassment", or "threat" as alternatives to "intimidation".

Is there a subtle difference between "intimidation" and "harassment"?

"Intimidation" generally involves direct or implied threats aimed at creating fear, while "harassment" encompasses a broader range of offensive and unwanted behaviors that create a hostile environment, not necessarily involving explicit threats.

When is it appropriate to use the word "intimidation" in legal contexts?

"Intimidation" is often used in legal settings to describe actions that unlawfully compel or restrain someone from exercising their rights, such as voter "intimidation" or witness "intimidation".