# nervousness

/ˈnɝvəsnəs/ (US) · /nˈɜːvəsnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nervousness
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the feeling of being worried, anxious, or slightly afraid about something that is going to happen.

For teachers: a state of being anxious or apprehensive, typically regarding an upcoming event or uncertain outcome.

## Examples

- She felt a bit of nervousness before her first job interview.
- Despite his extensive preparation, a slight nervousness remained as he stepped onto the stage to address the large crowd.
- The pervasive nervousness among investors led to a sharp decline in market activity as they awaited the central bank's announcement regarding interest rates.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'about' or 'at'.

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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.