Daunting
(Adjective) | Pronunciation: /ˈdɔːn.tɪŋ/
Definition & Meaning
The word “daunting” describes something that appears difficult, overwhelming, or intimidating to accomplish.
- In Everyday Use – Something that feels challenging or discouraging.
- In Work & Studies – A task or goal that seems overwhelming at first.
- In Emotional Contexts – A situation that causes fear or hesitation.
💡 Did You Know? The word “daunting” is often used when describing big challenges, like moving to a new country or preparing for an exam!
Word Origin & History
- Etymology: Derived from Old French “danter”, meaning “to overcome or subdue,” which comes from Latin “domitare”, meaning “to tame.”
- Historical Usage: First used in English around the 16th century to describe intimidating situations.
- Cultural Influence: The term is commonly used in personal development and motivational speeches.
📖 Example: Public speaking can be a daunting experience for many people.
Synonyms & Antonyms
🔹 Synonyms (Similar Meanings)
- Intimidating
- Overwhelming
- Frightening
- Challenging
🔻 Antonyms (Opposite Meanings)
- Encouraging
- Comforting
- Simple
- Easy
💡 Word Tip: If something feels daunting, breaking it into smaller steps can make it more manageable!
Example Sentences
✅ Learning a new language can be daunting at first.
✅ The idea of starting a new business seemed daunting, but she took the risk.
✅ Moving to a new city alone is a daunting experience.
✅ Preparing for final exams can feel daunting without proper planning.
✅ The hike up the mountain looked daunting, but they managed to reach the top.
✅ Facing a large audience can be daunting for new speakers.
✅ He found the advanced math course daunting but decided to give it his best effort.
✅ Writing a book is a daunting task, but the result is rewarding.
✅ She overcame the daunting challenge with determination.
📌 Challenge: Can you describe a time when you faced a daunting challenge?
Related Words & Phrases
These words are commonly linked to “daunting”:
- Fearsome
- Intimidation
- Overwhelming
- Formidable
- Discouraging
- Stressful
- Difficult
- Demanding
Example: The daunting journey required courage and perseverance.
Usage Trends & Popularity
🧐 Trending Now: The word “daunting” is often used in career advice and personal development discussions.
📢 Discuss: What is one daunting goal you have overcome in life?
Fun Activities & Challenges
🔠 Word Puzzle: Unscramble this word → T U D I A N G N
🧠 Quick Quiz:
💭 What does “daunting” mean?
A) Easy and simple
B) Difficult and intimidating ✅
C) Unimportant
✍ Word Story Challenge: Write a short paragraph using “daunting” creatively!
User Contributions & Comments
💬 Share Your Thoughts: Have you ever faced a daunting situation? How did you handle it?
📢 Join the discussion below!
Advanced Learning & Fun Facts
Idioms & Phrases
- “A daunting task” – A job that feels difficult to complete.
- “Face a daunting challenge” – To confront something intimidating.
- “Look daunting at first” – Appearing tough but becoming easier with time.
Psychological & Motivational Use
- Experts suggest breaking daunting tasks into smaller steps to make them easier.
- Fear of failure often makes challenges seem more daunting than they actually are.
Famous Quotes
“A daunting challenge is often the first step toward a great achievement.”
— Motivational Speaker
💡 Did You Know? The human brain perceives large tasks as daunting, but dividing them into smaller goals reduces stress!