it feels intimidating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it feels intimidating" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a sense of fear or apprehension about a situation or task. Example: "Walking into the crowded room for the first time feels intimidating, but I know I will meet new people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Whether it's intentional or not, it feels intimidating".

The Guardian

It feels intimidating to answer questions into an automated system but that's what I did.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

As for legitimate power, it is difficult to predict the reaction of a weaker party because the latter may choose not to enter the relationship if it feels intimidated.

Agricultural and Food Economics

It felt intimidating just to enter.

The New York Times

Does it feel intimidating?

Forbes

It felt intimidating to even be a spectator among the local pros who've been doing it for years.

Huffington Post

But as Emma puts it: "I feel intimidated by the prospect of challenging the LSC, government and the fourth largest drug company in the world".

The Guardian

Art, particularly contemporary art, often feels intimidating.

BBC

As a woman, I feel intimidated.

The New York Times

While it might feel intimidating at first, it gives you a chance to assert your boundaries for a better work-life balance.

Forbes

While it might feel intimidating to go to an event alone, don't sweat it.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it feels intimidating" to describe situations that cause a sense of unease or apprehension, but not necessarily outright fear. This phrase is suitable when something seems challenging or overwhelming, prompting hesitation or caution.

Common error

Avoid using "it feels intimidating" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "daunting", "challenging", or "overwhelming" to keep your writing engaging and precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it feels intimidating" functions as a subjective descriptor, expressing a personal sensation of unease or apprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to convey a feeling rather than an objective statement about something's inherent qualities. Examples show it describing situations from job interviews to art galleries.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it feels intimidating" effectively communicates a subjective feeling of unease or apprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct and usable in English. Predominantly found in news and media, with usage also in scientific and wiki contexts, it expresses a personal sensation when facing a challenging or overwhelming situation. While "daunting", "overwhelming", and "scary" serve as alternatives, understanding the specific context ensures the most precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it seems intimidating

It changes the verb but maintains the adjective form.

it feels overwhelming

It replaces the adjective with a synonym.

it seems daunting

Focuses on the task or situation appearing overwhelming at first glance.

it feels daunting

A different adjective choice to convey a similar meaning.

it appears overwhelming

Highlights the magnitude of something, suggesting it's too much to handle.

it feels scary

Emphasizes the fear or danger associated with a situation.

it makes me anxious

Highlights the feeling of unease and worry the situation provokes.

it fills me with trepidation

Indicates a sense of dread or apprehension about what might happen.

it feels unsettling

Highlights the disturbing or disquieting nature of the situation.

it leaves me apprehensive

Emphasizes the feeling of anxiety and uncertainty about future events.

FAQs

How can I use "it feels intimidating" in a sentence?

You can use "it feels intimidating" to describe a situation or task that seems overwhelming or frightening. For example: "Walking into a job interview "it feels intimidating", but preparation can help."

What are some alternatives to "it feels intimidating"?

Some alternatives include "it seems daunting", "it appears overwhelming", or "it feels overwhelming", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "it feels intimidating" or "it is intimidating"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "it feels intimidating" emphasizes a subjective feeling or perception, while "it is intimidating" presents it as an objective quality. The best choice depends on the context and your intended meaning.

What makes something "feel" intimidating?

Something might "feel intimidating" because it's unfamiliar, challenging, or involves high stakes. This feeling is often based on personal perception and past experiences.