anxious
adj.-
1 worried (adj.) B1 Intermediatefeeling worried or nervous about something that might happen.
experiencing worry, unease, or nervousness, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.
ExampleShe felt anxious about the job interview and couldn't sleep well.
ExampleThe passengers grew increasingly anxious as the pilot announced a further two-hour delay due to deteriorating weather conditions.
UsageCommonly followed by the preposition 'about'.
PitfallI am anxious for my exam results.I am anxious about my exam results.Use 'about' when you are worried. Use 'for' or 'to' when you are eagerly waiting for something good.
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2 eager (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediatewanting to do something or wanting something to happen very much.
characterized by extreme eagerness or a strong desire to do something.
ExampleWe are anxious to start the project and see the results.
ExampleThe board of directors is anxious to resolve the legal dispute before the end of the fiscal year to reassure their investors.
UsageUsually followed by a 'to' infinitive or the preposition 'for'.
Teacher's tipIn this sense, the word does not necessarily imply fear, but rather a high level of impatience or enthusiasm.
Borrowed from Latin anxius, from angō (“to cause pain, choke”); akin to Ancient Greek ἄγχω (ánkhō, “to choke”). See anger; angst.
- Adjectiveanxious
- Adverbanxiously