be anxious about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be anxious about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing concern or worry regarding a specific situation or subject. Example: "I tend to be anxious about public speaking, especially when presenting in front of large audiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The things I used to be anxious about are now mostly resolved.

TechCrunch

You may be anxious about financial problems.

The New York Times - Health

"Don't be anxious about the unknown," Ihakara told us, "be anxious about the known".

The New Yorker

"Multitasking? How can Mil be anxious about multitasking?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There was plenty to be anxious about — even without anthrax.

The New Yorker

And there are good reasons to be anxious about the dollar.

The Economist

Nor, with such a majority, need he be anxious about a no-confidence vote in Parliament.

The Economist

Christie's will be anxious about whether this momentum can be sustained.

The Economist

"Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious about itself," Mr. Powell said, reading from Matthew 6 25-34.

The New York Times

In these circumstances it is reasonable to be anxious about the future of the Western alliance.

The New York Times

I would be anxious about what happens in the playground, because you can't control it".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be anxious about", ensure the object of your anxiety is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "be anxious about the presentation" rather than simply "be anxious."

Common error

In formal or professional writing, consider using alternatives like "concerned" or "apprehensive" instead of "anxious" to maintain a more professional tone, especially when the context doesn't involve severe distress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be anxious about" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a state of worry or unease related to a specific subject. Ludwig AI identifies its correct usage in numerous contexts, confirming its adherence to standard grammatical rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be anxious about" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express worry or concern. As noted by Ludwig AI, its usage is correct and widespread. While it's appropriate for various contexts, including news and general discussions, consider more formal alternatives like "concerned" or "apprehensive" in professional settings. Remember to clearly define the object of your anxiety when using this phrase to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be worried about

Replaces "anxious" with a more general term for concern.

be concerned about

Similar to "worried", but can imply a more thoughtful or considered concern.

be apprehensive about

Suggests a feeling of dread or foreboding about something.

feel uneasy about

Emphasizes a lack of comfort or peace of mind.

have misgivings about

Indicates doubts or reservations about something.

be fearful of

Highlights the element of fear or dread.

be stressed about

Focuses on the pressure and tension caused by worry.

be nervous about

Highlights the feeling of agitation and unease.

dread the thought of

Emphasizes the anticipation of something unpleasant.

agonize over

Suggests a prolonged and intense period of worry.

FAQs

What's a less intense way to say "be anxious about"?

If you want to express concern without implying strong anxiety, you could use phrases like "be concerned about" or "be worried about". These suggest a milder form of unease.

How can I use "be anxious about" in a sentence?

The phrase "be anxious about" is followed by the thing that causes anxiety. For example: "I might "be anxious about" the results."

Is it always negative to "be anxious about" something?

While "be anxious about" usually carries a negative connotation of worry, it can sometimes imply eagerness, particularly in older usage. However, in modern English, it's predominantly associated with unease and concern.

What's the difference between ""be anxious about"" and "be nervous about"?

"Be nervous about" often suggests a more immediate, situational unease, while ""be anxious about"" can imply a more prolonged or generalized state of worry.