The story nearly 'frightened me to death'. = The story nearly 'frightened the life out of' me. [=the story frightened me very badly]
The insurance agent tried to 'frighten' her 'into' buying the most expensive flood insurance.
Bad economic news has 'frightened' people 'out of' putting their money in the stock market.
(..) - If you could climb your own battlements, you would see that he has men outside your walls. They'll be corpses when Tywin Lannister gets here. Don't try and frighten me, Lady Stark. Your husband's in a cell beneath the Red Keep and your son's got no fur to keep his balls warm. (..)2011 TvShow: Game of Thrones Title: Baelor Season: 1 Episode 9