C1adjectiveworkeducation
US/ˈdɑːn.tɪŋ/
UK/ˈdɔːn.tɪŋ/
seeming difficult or frightening, so that you feel less confident
In context
Starting a new job in a foreign country can be a daunting experience.
Writing a 10,000-word thesis seemed daunting at first, but I did it step by step.
The team faces the daunting task of rebuilding the school before the rainy season.
Words that go with daunting
adjective + noun
- daunting taskCleaning the whole house before the guests arrive is a daunting task.
- daunting challengeRising sea levels are a daunting challenge for coastal cities.
- daunting prospectSpeaking in front of five hundred people was a daunting prospect.
adjective + preposition
- daunting forThe application process can be daunting for first-time buyers.
adverb + adjective
- a little dauntingMoving to a big city was a little daunting at first.
- somewhat dauntingThe size of the campus is somewhat daunting for new students.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I feel daunting about my first day at work.Correct: I feel daunted by my first day at work.