# apprehended

/ˌæpɹɪˈhɛndɪd/ (US) · /ˌæpɹɪhˈɛndɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/apprehended
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

worried or nervous about something that is going to happen. You feel this way when you are unsure if the result will be good or bad.

For teachers: feeling anxiety or fear about a future event or outcome. Typically used predicatively after linking verbs such as 'feel' or 'be'.

## Examples

- She felt apprehended about the job interview.
- The students looked apprehended before the final exam began.
- Despite his years of experience, the surgeon remained apprehended about the complexity of the procedure.

## Usage notes

- The adjective is typically used predicatively (e.g. 'felt apprehended') rather than attributively before a noun.

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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.