Apprehensive Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˌæprɛhˈsɪvənt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A feeling of anxiety or nervousness about a situation or outcome; a sense of doubt or uncertainty.

Examples

1. “He became apprehensive about the project’s deadline and potential risks.”

2. “The child felt apprehensive about starting at a new school.

Synonyms

1. Anxious

2. Nervous

3. Uneasy

4. Fidgety

Antonyms

1. Confident

2. Calm

3. Relaxed

4. Secure

Additional Information

Apprehensive feelings can range from mild worry to intense fear, and they often stem from a perceived threat or uncertainty about a situation. In individuals with anxiety disorders, apprehensive feelings can become overwhelming and negatively impact daily life. Treating anxiety often involves addressing underlying causes, such as past traumas or underlying medical conditions, and learning relaxation techniques to manage symptoms.

Apprehensive feelings can manifest in different ways, such as:

• Persistent worried thoughts or ruminations
• Avoidance of situations or activities perceived as threatening
• Excessive checking or reassurance-seeking
• Physical symptoms like tremors or rapid heartbeat

It’s essential to recognize the impact of apprehensive feelings on mental and physical health and seek professional help if they become debilitating or interfere with daily life.

Etymology

The word “apprehensive” is derived from the Latin “apprehendere,” meaning “to grasp” or “to seize,” which is also related to the concept of understanding or comprehending something.

Usage Notes

To use “apprehensive” correctly, consider the context and the intensity of the feeling being described. In general, however, it is suitable for professional, academic, or formal writing to convey a sense of caution or nervousness about a situation or outcome.

Cultural References

Apprehensive feelings are referenced in literature, art, and popular media to convey anxiety, fear, or uncertainty. One notable example is the psychology of fear explored in the novel and film “The Shining” by Stephen King.

Idiomatic Expressions

Some common idiomatic expressions that include “apprehensive” are:

• “Feel apprehensive about”
• “Be apprehensive of”
• “Have an apprehensive feeling”

Related Words

Other words that convey anxiety or nervousness, such as “anxious,” “nervous,” or “uneasy”, can be used interchangeably with “apprehensive” depending on the context and intensity of the feeling being described.

Collocations

Common word combinations that include “apprehensive” are:

• “Apprehensive of danger”
• “Apprehensive about change”
• “Apprehensive of failure”

Frequency of Use

“Apprehensive” is a relatively common word in modern language, particularly in professional and academic writing. The frequency of use may vary depending on the context and the specific audience being addressed.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings or variations of “apprehensive” include:

• “Apprehensive”
• “Apprehensiveness”
• “Apprehensive-ness”