seem less daunting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem less daunting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that appears to be less intimidating or overwhelming than it initially seems. Example: "Breaking the project into smaller tasks can help it seem less daunting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

If the euro zone grew faster, tax receipts would rise and the debts of countries like Spain or Italy would seem less daunting.

The New York Times

There is too much at stake to jettison that vision for the expediency of "moving on" to other governing priorities that seem less daunting.

The Washington Post

Of course, with many dot-com companies continuing to post a loss and telling investors to watch their operating income, the charge may seem less daunting.

The New York Times

Once you've had a 6 4in triathlete swim over you in practice it will – hopefully – seem less daunting on the day!

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They also say that the high price associated with building nuclear plants would seem less daunting once gas and coal plants have to pay for their carbon emissions, and as the high costs of building and maintaining renewable energy projects, like offshore wind farms, become apparent.

The New York Times

The next steps are clear and seem less daunting.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Even Russian-literature class seemed less daunting.

The New York Times - Magazine

But we'd rather not hear that; blaming a "chemical imbalance" seems less daunting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lynda says the trick to this to set yourself bite-sized chunks, so your resolution seems less daunting.

BBC

The biggest shortfall is in 2012 but--given that some major countries like the US have not yet begun budget negotiations for that year--that nearly $3 billion gap seems less daunting.

Huffington Post

While (North-to-South/South to North) interstates seem less-daunting to travel than those interstates that travel cross-country (East-to-West/West-to-East), there is some possibility that some North-to-South ones may be very daunting to a new route-taker.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem less daunting" when you want to express that something's initial appearance of difficulty or scariness is reduced, often after taking specific actions or gaining a new perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "seem less daunting" when the subject has not actually changed; the phrase implies a real or perceived reduction in difficulty, not just wishful thinking.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "seem less daunting" is to act as a predicate adjective describing a noun. It indicates a perceived reduction in the level of intimidation or difficulty associated with something. Ludwig shows this through examples where complex tasks or challenges are modified by the phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seem less daunting" is a versatile expression used to convey a reduction in the perceived difficulty or intimidation of a task, situation, or goal. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media. To enhance clarity and impact, consider alternatives like "appear more manageable" or "be less intimidating", ensuring the chosen phrase aligns with the specific nuance you intend to communicate. When writing, remember that the phrase implies a genuine shift in perspective or circumstance, not merely wishful thinking. By understanding the nuances of "seem less daunting", writers can effectively convey reassurance and motivation, encouraging readers to approach challenges with renewed confidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be less intimidating

Directly addresses the reduction of fear or apprehension.

appear more manageable

Focuses on manageability as opposed to being daunting.

appear more approachable

Emphasizes ease of access and understanding.

feel more achievable

Highlights the increased sense of accomplishment.

look more attainable

Stresses the feasibility and realism of the goal.

present fewer challenges

Focuses on reducing the number of obstacles.

grow easier to handle

Implies that something becomes easier to control or deal with.

pose less of a threat

Highlights the reduced risk or negative impact.

turn into less of a struggle

Emphasizes the reduced effort required.

become more palatable

Implies making something more agreeable or acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "seem less daunting" in a sentence?

You can use "seem less daunting" to describe a task, goal, or situation that initially appears overwhelming but becomes more manageable. For example: "Breaking the project into smaller tasks can make it "seem less daunting"".

What are some alternatives to "seem less daunting"?

Alternatives include "appear more manageable", "be less intimidating", or "feel more achievable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "seem less daunting"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Seem" is a linking verb, "less" is an adverb modifying the adjective "daunting".

What makes something "seem less daunting"?

Often, it's a change in perspective, increased knowledge, or a strategic breakdown of the task into smaller steps. It suggests that the perceived difficulty has decreased.