fear factor
Definition
A psychological or situational element that induces fear, anxiety, or apprehension in individuals.
A quantifiable measure of how frightening or intimidating something is, often used colloquially.
(Proper noun) A popular American reality television show (2001–2012, revived later) where contestants faced extreme phobias and gross-out challenges for cash prizes.
Examples
Public speaking ranks as the top fear factor for most professionals, right up there with skydiving without a parachute.
That haunted house's animatronic clowns dialed the fear factor to eleven, leaving even the bravest screaming for mommy.
Assembling flat-pack furniture solo is the ultimate modern fear factor—faster than any horror flick.
The boss's Monday morning meetings have a fear factor that could make Navy SEALs sweat.