a degree of trepidation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a degree of trepidation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a certain level of fear or anxiety about a situation or event. Example: "As she approached the stage to give her speech, she felt a degree of trepidation about speaking in front of such a large audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Nevertheless, he admits to a degree of trepidation.

The Guardian

It's with a degree of trepidation that he is embarking on a solo headline tour.

Independent

Richardson admitted she approached the programme with a "degree of trepidation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's hard not to feel a degree of trepidation before meeting Karin Dreijer Andersson.

The Guardian - Music

Yet even in the remotest corners of Britain, booksellers feel a degree of trepidation at John Smith & Son's closure.

The Guardian - Books

So, with a degree of trepidation, I'm going to nail my colours to the mast of aspiration and vote "Yes".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Many postal workers now say they perform their jobs with a higher degree of trepidation.

The New York Times

"There's always a certain degree of trepidation when change is in the wind," Mr. Jolna said in offering a preview of the Omnicom alliance in a telephone interview.

The New York Times

Dear "Vicky", Like many other social workers, I suspect, I settled down last week with a huge degree of trepidation to watch the Dispatches documentary that you were so pivotal in.

The Guardian

Others voted Tory with a degree of doubt or even trepidation.

Independent

Philip French might have been writing film reviews for longer than I had been alive but, like the rest of us, he approached each blank page with a sense of trepidation and a degree of excitement.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a degree of trepidation" to convey a measured sense of apprehension, particularly when facing uncertain or challenging situations. It's more suitable than simply saying "fear" when you want to imply a controlled or nuanced level of anxiety.

Common error

Avoid using "a degree of trepidation" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "a bit worried" or "slightly anxious" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of trepidation" functions as a noun phrase that modifies a verb, adjective, or another noun, indicating the extent or intensity of fear or apprehension. Ludwig AI validates this usage as grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a degree of trepidation" is a grammatically sound phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, used to express a measured sense of apprehension. Its frequency is common, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. While suitable for formal writing, it's best to avoid overuse in casual conversation. To enhance writing, consider alternatives like "some apprehension" or "slight unease" for varied expression. The phrase's function is to modify and qualify feelings of fear or anxiety, providing nuance and precision. It carries a neutral to slightly formal tone, making it appropriate for objective reporting and analytical discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some apprehension

Focuses more on initial anxiety and less on the intensity.

restrained fear

Emphasizes the control over the feeling of fear.

moderate anxiety

Emphasizes the psychological aspect of anxiety more directly.

a hint of fear

Emphasizes the element of fear rather than general apprehension.

slight unease

Indicates a milder form of discomfort or anxiety.

a shade of apprehension

Similar to "a touch of anxiety" but slightly more formal.

some misgivings

Focuses on doubts or reservations about a future event or decision.

certain worry

Highlights concern and worry about a specific outcome.

a touch of anxiety

Suggests a very slight and manageable level of anxiety.

mild concern

Implies a lower level of worry compared to "trepidation".

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of trepidation" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of trepidation" to describe someone's feelings when facing an uncertain or potentially negative situation. For instance, "She approached the interview with "a degree of trepidation", unsure of what to expect".

What are some alternatives to "a degree of trepidation"?

Alternatives include "some apprehension", "slight unease", or "moderate anxiety", depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a degree of trepidation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a degree of trepidation" is suitable for formal writing as it conveys a nuanced and precise sense of apprehension. It's often used in news articles, academic papers, and professional reports.

What's the difference between "a degree of trepidation" and "a lot of fear"?

"A degree of trepidation" suggests a measured and somewhat controlled level of anxiety, whereas "a lot of fear" implies a more intense and possibly overwhelming emotion. Trepidation often involves anticipation of something negative, while fear can be more immediate.