an underlying apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an underlying apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deep-seated feeling of anxiety or unease that may not be immediately apparent. Example: "Despite her calm demeanor, there was an underlying apprehension about the upcoming presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Yesterday's tentative trading may signal an underlying apprehension surrounding the sustainable strength of the American economy.

The New York Times

But there is also an underlying apprehension, which surfaced publicly for the first time in August.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Joan Didion, whose novels and essays have always contained an underlying sense of dread, said that perhaps there would be "a different level of apprehension" in her work.

The New York Times - Books

And an underlying motive: oil.

The Guardian - Opinion

There was an underlying deep physical attraction.

The New York Times

However, this will leave an underlying instability.

The Economist

There is an underlying rumbling for change.

The Guardian - Opinion

Steely, but with an underlying softness.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

One with an underlying, fundamental decency?

The Guardian

There's an underlying theme here".

The New York Times

The playful mockery has an underlying point.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an underlying apprehension" to convey a sense of unease that is not immediately obvious or explicitly stated. This can add depth and complexity to your writing, particularly when describing characters' emotions or societal trends.

Common error

Avoid using "an underlying apprehension" when describing straightforward or obvious anxiety. The phrase is most effective when the apprehension is subtle, hidden, or not immediately apparent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an underlying apprehension" functions as a noun phrase, where 'underlying' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'apprehension'. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in conveying a subtle sense of unease.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an underlying apprehension" is a noun phrase used to describe a subtle or hidden feeling of anxiety or unease. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register suitable for formal writing. Alternatives include "a subtle anxiety" or "a deep-seated unease". To use it effectively, convey a subtle sense of unease that's not immediately apparent. Avoid using it for simple or obvious anxiety. The phrase is most effective when the apprehension is subtle, hidden, or not immediately apparent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subtle anxiety

Emphasizes the understated nature of the anxiety.

a deep-seated unease

Highlights the deeply rooted nature of the feeling.

a latent disquiet

Focuses on the hidden or not yet fully developed sense of worry.

a low-level anxiety

Indicates a mild but persistent state of anxiety.

a lurking concern

Suggests a hidden or concealed worry.

a vague foreboding

Emphasizes an indistinct feeling that something bad will happen.

a hidden worry

Highlights the concealed nature of the concern.

a suppressed fear

Indicates that the fear is being consciously or unconsciously held back.

a nagging doubt

Focuses on a persistent and irritating feeling of uncertainty.

a simmering anxiety

Suggests that the anxiety is building up slowly over time.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an underlying apprehension" in a sentence?

Use "an underlying apprehension" to describe a subtle or not immediately obvious feeling of anxiety or unease. For example, "Despite the company's success, there was "an underlying apprehension" about future market trends".

What are some alternatives to "an underlying apprehension"?

You can use alternatives like "a subtle anxiety", "a deep-seated unease", or "a latent disquiet" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each alternative emphasizes different aspects of the feeling.

Is it always necessary to specify the cause of "an underlying apprehension"?

No, it is not always necessary. Sometimes, leaving the cause unspecified can enhance the sense of mystery or foreboding. However, providing context can help readers better understand the depth and complexity of the feeling.

How does "an underlying apprehension" differ from simple "anxiety"?

"Anxiety" is a general feeling of worry or unease. "An underlying apprehension" suggests a more subtle, less obvious, and perhaps deeper-rooted feeling. It implies something that is not immediately apparent but is still present and influential.