afraid to do

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "afraid to do" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing fear or apprehension about taking a specific action. Example: "She was afraid to do the presentation in front of the large audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Don't be afraid to do business with a partner.

WikiHow

I'm afraid to do anything".

The New York Times - Food

Politicians afraid to do much about it.

The New Yorker

I know guys afraid to do it.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm not afraid to do that".

The New York Times - Sports

Jenji's not afraid to do it.

Independent

You're afraid to do anything.

The New York Times

She wasn't afraid to do brave things.

The New York Times

Don't be afraid to do multiple takes.

Columbia University

"But I wasn't afraid to do it.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Don't be afraid to Do-It-Yourself (DIY).

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "afraid to do", ensure that the context clearly indicates the source or reason for the fear. Providing context enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "afraid to do" when a stronger term like "prohibited from doing" or "unable to do" is more accurate. Fear implies a subjective emotional barrier, not a concrete restriction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "afraid to do" primarily functions as an adjective phrase followed by an infinitive, modifying a noun or pronoun to express a state of fear or apprehension regarding a potential action. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "afraid to do" is a common and grammatically correct way to express fear or apprehension about taking a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely used and understood. The usage analysis shows it appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki contexts, indicating its relevance across diverse scenarios. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the source and scope of the fear to avoid any ambiguity. Remember that while alternatives exist, "afraid to do" clearly communicates a subjective emotional barrier to action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scared to undertake

Directly expresses fear, similar to the original phrase, with a slightly more formal verb.

uneasy about doing

Conveys a feeling of discomfort or anxiety related to the action.

hesitant to proceed

Highlights a pause or delay in action due to uncertainty or concern.

apprehensive about acting

Focuses on anticipating potential negative consequences or difficulties.

doubtful about trying

Focuses on the uncertainty and lack of confidence in a successful outcome.

reluctant to act

Emphasizes unwillingness and resistance more strongly than a simple feeling of fear.

wary of undertaking

Suggests caution and careful consideration before starting something.

unwilling to attempt

Highlights the lack of desire or motivation to try something.

disinclined to perform

Implies a lack of enthusiasm or willingness to carry out the action.

averse to engaging in

Indicates a strong dislike or opposition to participating in the action.

FAQs

How can I use "afraid to do" in a sentence?

The phrase "afraid to do" is used to express a feeling of fear or apprehension about performing a specific action. For example, "She was "afraid to speak" in public" or "They were "afraid to fail"".

What are some alternatives to saying "afraid to do"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "hesitant to do", "reluctant to do", or "scared to do" instead of "afraid to do".

Is it correct to say "I'm afraid to doing"?

No, the correct form is "I'm afraid to do". The phrase "afraid" is followed by the infinitive form of the verb (to + base form).

What's the difference between "afraid to do" and "anxious to do"?

"Afraid to do" implies fear or apprehension, while "anxious to do" suggests eagerness or strong desire. They convey opposite emotions regarding the action.