daunting
/ˈdɔːntɪŋ/
Group 1Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Seeming difficult to deal with; intimidating GRE
Example in Context
The daunting task of rebuilding the city's infrastructure after the earthquake will require billions in federal aid.
Synonyms
scaryintimidatingoverwhelming
Etymology
Intimidating and difficult, like climbing a steep mountain!
- dare (Old French) — to intimidate
Memory Aid
🌄Sounds like “dawn tint”
Imagine a sunrise that looks so daunting, you think, 'Can I even get to the TOP of this DAUNTING mountain?'
Visual Association
⛰️A steep, towering cliff that looms over a tiny climber, making them feel very intimidated.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “daunting” mean on the GRE?
daunting (adjective) means “Seeming difficult to deal with; intimidating”. The daunting task of rebuilding the city's infrastructure after the earthquake will require billions in federal aid.
How to remember “daunting” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “daunting” sounds like “dawn tint”. Imagine a sunrise that looks so daunting, you think, 'Can I even get to the TOP of this DAUNTING mountain?'
What are synonyms for “daunting”?
Common synonyms: scary, intimidating, overwhelming.