be apprehensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be apprehensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to be cautious or to have concerns about a situation. Example: "You should be apprehensive about making such a significant investment without doing thorough research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He would be apprehensive".

The New Yorker

"I will be apprehensive".

The Guardian - Sport

There was reason to be apprehensive.

The New York Times - Arts

And because they're small, people tend be apprehensive.

The New York Times - Travel

Tinie used to be apprehensive about shellfish and squid.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Everybody will be apprehensive about leaving – I was dreading it.

The Guardian

On the general macroeconomic front there is much to be apprehensive about.

The Guardian - Business

I'd be apprehensive if we were giving away part of Nevada".

The New York Times

Weddings and Robberies Emily Delgado understands why residents of the Opera House would be apprehensive about their new surroundings.

The New York Times

There is no reason for anyone to be apprehensive about attending events at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I'm apprehensive.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be apprehensive" when you want to convey a sense of unease or anxiety about a future event or situation. It is more formal than "be worried" and suggests a thoughtful consideration of potential negative outcomes.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "be apprehensive" in very casual conversations can sound overly formal or stilted. In informal settings, consider using alternatives like "be worried", "feel uneasy", or "be anxious" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be apprehensive" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, describing the state of being anxious or fearful about something that might happen. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be apprehensive" is a common and grammatically sound way to express anxiety or concern about a potential future event, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's versatile, fitting into neutral, professional, and even scientific registers. While suitable for diverse contexts, it may sound overly formal in casual conversation, where alternatives like "be worried" or "feel anxious" might be more appropriate. Remember to use "be apprehensive" to convey thoughtful consideration of potential negative outcomes and potential risks. With frequent use in reputable news outlets and scientific publications, mastering "be apprehensive" enhances clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel anxious

Focuses more on the emotional state of anxiety.

be worried

Emphasizes the feeling of concern and unease.

be concerned

Highlights a sense of responsibility and care.

be uneasy

Suggests a lack of comfort and peace of mind.

feel uneasy

Highlights a feeling of discomfort.

be fearful

Focuses on the element of fear in the anticipation.

have misgivings

Indicates doubts or reservations about something.

be skeptical

Expresses doubt and questioning about a claim or situation.

anticipate with dread

Highlights the negative anticipation of an event.

have reservations

Indicates having doubts or hesitations.

FAQs

How can I use "be apprehensive" in a sentence?

The phrase "be apprehensive" is used to express anxiety or fear about something that might happen. For example, "I "be apprehensive" about the upcoming exam" or "They "be apprehensive" about the potential consequences of their decision."

What are some alternatives to "be apprehensive"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "feel anxious", "be worried", "be concerned", or "be uneasy". These phrases convey similar feelings of unease or concern.

When is it appropriate to use "be apprehensive" instead of "be afraid"?

"Be apprehensive" often implies a more thoughtful or reasoned anxiety, while "be afraid" suggests a more immediate or instinctual fear. You might "be apprehensive" about a long-term financial investment because you've analyzed the risks, but you might "be afraid" of a sudden loud noise.

Is "be apprehensive about" grammatically correct?

Yes, "be apprehensive about" is grammatically correct and commonly used. For example, "She "be apprehensive about" traveling alone" is a perfectly valid and understandable sentence.