Scare out of Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To frighten someone so much that they stop doing something, give something up, or lose something (like self-control or confidence).
Usage & Nuances
Often used informally or in storytelling. Typical patterns: 'scare the life out of', 'scare out of your wits', 'scare someone out of doing something'. The focus is on strong fear causing someone to stop or lose something. Not used for trivial fears.
Example Sentences
He tried to scare her out of quitting her job.
basic
The loud noise scared the cat out of the room.
basic
The ghost story scared the kids out of going upstairs alone.
basic
That horror movie really scared me out of sleeping alone last night.
natural
Her parents tried to scare her out of traveling abroad, but she went anyway.
natural
The dog barked loudly and scared the thief out of breaking in.
natural