apprehension about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apprehension about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing feelings of anxiety or concern regarding a specific subject or situation. Example: "She felt a sense of apprehension about the upcoming exam, fearing she might not perform well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nevertheless, many employees express apprehension about WF2020.

Harvard Business Review

Knowing this, you can understand my apprehension about Obama's decision.

The Guardian

Another common theme is longtime residents' apprehension about newcomers.

University of California, Berkeley

There is not enough apprehension about what this would mean.

The Guardian - Opinion

There was also widespread apprehension about terrorist repercussions.

The New York Times

A few Republicans also expressed apprehension about Mr. Nunes's decision.

The New York Times

Still, interviews reflected clear apprehension about the program.

The New York Times

Mr. Daschle expressed some apprehension about the upcoming talks.

The New York Times

There is, however, apprehension about what Watson will say.

The Guardian

Perhaps I felt some apprehension about what I might find.

The New Yorker

Public concern seemed also to stem from apprehension about the law.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apprehension about", ensure that the subject of apprehension is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "There was apprehension", specify "There was "apprehension about" the project's deadline".

Common error

Avoid using "apprehension about" when you simply dislike something. "Apprehension" implies a degree of anxiety or fear, not just a lack of preference. Using "dislike of" or "aversion to" is more appropriate for expressing simple distaste.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apprehension about" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It typically follows a verb (like "feel", "express", or "have") and indicates the object of the apprehension. Ludwig AI confirms this is a commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

27%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apprehension about" is a commonly used and grammatically correct prepositional phrase that expresses worry or anxiety concerning a specific topic. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific domains. While alternatives like "concern regarding" or "anxiety over" exist, "apprehension about" provides a nuanced expression of unease. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the subject of apprehension and avoid confusing it with simple dislike. With its frequent usage and clear meaning, "apprehension about" remains a valuable tool for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worry about

A general term for feeling troubled or anxious, being interchangeable with apprehension but less formal.

trepidation about

Implies a feeling of fear or agitation about something that may happen, interchangeable with apprehension.

fears about

Directly expresses fear related to a specific topic, which is more straightforward than apprehension.

concern regarding

Highlights worry and attentiveness towards something, suggesting a more thoughtful and less emotional reaction than "apprehension".

concern over

Similar to "concern regarding", but with a slight shift in prepositional usage, maintaining a focus on worry.

anxiety regarding

Emphasizes a state of worry and nervousness, similar to apprehension but can sometimes imply a more intense emotional response.

unease concerning

Focuses on a lack of comfort or peace of mind, indicating a milder form of worry compared to apprehension.

dread regarding

Conveys a strong feeling of fear or anticipation of something unpleasant, suggesting a more intense emotional response than simple apprehension.

misgivings concerning

Highlights doubts and reservations about something, rather than outright fear or anxiety.

reservations regarding

Implies a holding back or a sense of doubt, focusing more on a hesitant attitude than a feeling of anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "apprehension about" in a sentence?

You can use "apprehension about" to express feelings of anxiety or concern regarding a specific subject or situation. For example, "She felt a sense of "apprehension about" the upcoming exam" or "There is widespread "apprehension about" the new policy".

What are some alternatives to saying "apprehension about"?

You can use alternatives like "concern regarding", "anxiety over", or "unease concerning" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "apprehension for" instead of "apprehension about"?

While "apprehension" can sometimes be followed by "for", it usually refers to understanding something. When expressing worry or anxiety, "apprehension about" is the more appropriate and commonly used construction.

What is the difference between "apprehension about" and "fear of"?

"Apprehension about" implies a sense of unease or anxiety about something that may happen or is uncertain, while "fear of" suggests a more direct and intense feeling of dread or terror towards something specific. Apprehension is a milder form of fear.