scary

word

/ˈskɛɹi/
SKAIR-ee
/skˈeəɹi/
SKAIR-ee

Definition

Something scary makes you feel afraid or nervous. It can describe real danger or just something that feels frightening, like a movie or a loud noise.

Usage & Nuances

Common in everyday speech and less formal than 'frightening' or 'terrifying'. 'Scary' is often used for movies, stories, situations, people, or thoughts: 'a scary movie', 'a scary moment'. Don't confuse it with 'scared', which describes how a person feels.

Example Sentences

That dog looks scary.

basic

I don't like scary movies.

basic

The dark room felt scary.

basic

It sounded scary at first, but it was actually pretty safe.

natural

Getting that call in the middle of the night was really scary.

natural

Honestly, the thought of starting over is kind of scary.

natural