French Conversation · Level 57
74 words
French word
effrayant
Pronunciation
IPA/efʁɛjɑ̃/
Meaning
- adjectivescary
Example
Ce film est effrayant.
This movie is scary.
More examples
Le silence dans la maison était effrayant.
The silence in the house was frightening.
Core concept
A sight, sound, or situation that makes danger feel suddenly real.
Common phrases
film effrayant
scary film
bruit effrayant
eerie sound
Similar words
terrifiant: So frightening that it causes overwhelming fear and a shuddering reaction.
épouvantable: Horrifying and deeply unpleasant, provoking intense fear or dread.
inquiétant: Unsettling in a way that creates worry and prevents calm.
angoissant: Distressing in a way that creates a tight, oppressive sense of anxiety.
Definition in French
Qui provoque une sensation de peur, d'alarme ou d'effroi chez quelqu'un.
Word origin
Effrayant is formed from effrayer with the present-participle ending -ant, and effrayer developed from Old French esfreer, meaning 'to frighten'.
Usage tips
- Effrayant means frightening, while effrayé means frightened, so the adjective changes according to the source or receiver of fear.