Cool MateFrighten vs Scare
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Frighten | Scare | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | To make someone feel scared. | to make someone feel afraid |
| CEFR level | B1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | verb | verb |
| Usage notes | Commonly used when describing causing fear. Suitable in both written and spoken English but more prevalent in storytelling or when discussing emotional reactions. | Use 'scare' in contexts where someone is frightened. It can be informal in casual conversations but remains neutral overall. Avoid using it in formal writing. |
Frequently asked questions: Frighten vs Scare
What's the difference between "Frighten" and "Scare"?
"Frighten" means: To make someone feel scared. "Scare" means: to make someone feel afraid
When should I use "Frighten" and "Scare"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Frighten" and "Scare" the same CEFR level?
"Frighten" is at B1, "Scare" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.