fear
- 01 A2 Elementary
n.the unpleasant feeling you have when you think something dangerous or painful might happen.
n.an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.
Simple“The little boy tried to hide his fear of the dark by leaving a small lamp on.”
In context“The sudden turbulence in the cabin caused a wave of fear to sweep through the passengers, many of whom began to pray silently.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
n.a specific thing that makes you feel afraid.
n.a specific instance or type of phobia; a particular thing that causes an individual to feel afraid.
Simple“One of her biggest fears is spiders, so she never goes into the basement.”
In context“The therapist worked with the patient to confront his deep-seated fears regarding public speaking and social rejection.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a feeling of worry or regret the morning after drinking too much alcohol.
n.a state of acute anxiety or existential dread experienced during a hangover, often involving worry about one's behavior while intoxicated.
Simple“He woke up with a headache and a terrible case of the fear after the office party.”
In context“Waking up with the fear, she spent the entire morning checking her sent messages to ensure she hadn't offended anyone the night before.”
UsageUsually used with the definite article as 'the fear'.
Synonymshangover anxiety - 04 A2 Elementary
v.to be afraid of someone or something.
v.to be afraid of someone or something as a likely cause of danger or pain; to regard with apprehension.
Simple“Many people fear snakes even if they have never seen one in real life.”
In context“The local residents fear that the new highway construction will destroy the quiet character of their historic neighborhood.”
- 05 B1 Intermediate
v.to worry that something bad will happen or is true.
v.to anticipate a negative outcome with concern or anxiety; often used to introduce bad news politely.
Simple“I fear that we will be late for the movie if we don't leave now.”
In context“The doctor told the family that he feared the treatment was no longer having the desired effect on the patient's condition.”
UsageOften used in the phrase 'I fear that...' or 'I fear so'.
- 06 C1 Advanced
v.to have great respect and a little bit of fear for a powerful being, like a god.
v.to feel reverence or awe toward a deity or a person of great authority.
Simple“The ancient text tells the followers to fear their creator and follow the laws.”
In context“In many traditional cultures, to fear the king was considered a necessary component of civic duty and social order.”
SynonymsreverevenerateAntonyms
Usage fear reprisals