frighten
verb (used with object)
to make afraid or fearful; throw into a fright; terrify; scare.
is frightening
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present progressiveof frighten (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
AI’s threat to safety, national security and computer networks is frightening, but we have ample experience regulating the negative side effects of otherwise helpful products.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 31, 2026
In general, that intensity is frightening and strong enough to be felt by everyone.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 24, 2026
“And that is frightening to consider,” a former White House staffer admitted to me.
From Salon ● Apr. 17, 2026
Season 1 was Peacock’s most-watched show ever, which is frightening.
From MarketWatch ● Feb. 27, 2026
Remembering how my mother looked before she gave birth to my sister is frightening.
From "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes
