# afraid

/əˈfɹeɪd/ (US) · /ɐfɹˈeɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/afraid
Updated: 2026-05-01

## Senses

### 2. polite regret

adjective · CEFR A2 · Formal

a polite way to say 'sorry' when giving bad news or saying no.

For teachers: used to introduce a statement that is likely to be unwelcome or disappointing to the listener.

- I'm afraid that all the tickets for the concert are sold out.
- I am afraid I cannot attend the gala this evening, as a prior engagement requires my presence elsewhere.

Usage: Commonly followed by a 'that' clause or used as a standalone response.

### 3. worried about

adjective · CEFR B1

feeling worried that something bad might happen to someone or something.

For teachers: feeling concern or anxiety regarding a potential negative outcome for a person or situation.

- She was afraid for her brother when he didn't come home on time.
- The doctors were afraid for the patient's recovery after the complications during the initial surgery.

Usage: Often takes the preposition 'for'.

## Examples

- The child is afraid of the dark.
- Many people are afraid to speak in public because they worry about making mistakes.
- While she was not naturally timid, she felt afraid that the sudden change in market conditions would jeopardize her family's long-term financial security.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.