be apprehensive about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be apprehensive about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing feelings of anxiety or concern regarding a particular situation or subject. Example: "Many students tend to be apprehensive about taking standardized tests due to the pressure to perform well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

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

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

The more likely scenario, given recent history, is that he would be apprehensive about the consequences of regulating hedge-fund operators and investment bankers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The Audubo Society is apprehensive about the beacons.

The New Yorker

Eric was apprehensive about the whole idea.

The New Yorker

"I was apprehensive about it," she said.

The New York Times

He was apprehensive about the premiere.

The New York Times - Style

Everyone is apprehensive about the I.R.S.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be apprehensive about", ensure that the object of your apprehension is clearly defined. Vague statements can dilute the impact and leave the reader unsure of the specific concern.

Common error

Avoid using "be apprehensive about" when discussing anticipated positive outcomes. The phrase carries a connotation of unease or anxiety, which is unsuitable for describing positive expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be apprehensive about" functions as a predicate adjective describing a state of feeling anxious or uneasy about something. It connects a subject to the feeling of apprehension, as illustrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

22%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be apprehensive about" is a versatile phrase used to express feelings of anxiety or concern regarding a specific situation or subject. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and sees frequent use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While alternatives like "be worried about" or "feel anxious about" exist, "be apprehensive about" maintains its unique nuance of anticipatory unease. Remember to use this phrase carefully, ensuring the object of apprehension is clear and the context is appropriate. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be worried about

This alternative focuses on the feeling of worry as a primary emotion, rather than anticipation of potential issues.

be concerned about

This phrase emphasizes a sense of care and responsibility, suggesting a more thoughtful worry.

feel anxious about

This alternative highlights the feeling of anxiety, emphasizing the emotional discomfort.

have reservations about

This suggests holding back full agreement or enthusiasm, implying a more controlled form of apprehension.

be uneasy about

This phrase conveys a lack of comfort or security, focusing on a general feeling of disquiet.

have doubts about

This alternative underscores uncertainty and questioning the validity or outcome of something.

fear

A more direct and potentially stronger expression of apprehension, highlighting a sense of dread.

dread

This alternative emphasizes a strong feeling of fear or dislike for something that is about to happen.

be leery of

This suggests caution and suspicion, indicating a wariness based on past experiences or perceived risks.

feel trepidation regarding

This conveys a formal and intense sense of fear or anxiety about something impending.

FAQs

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

You can use "be apprehensive about" to express feelings of anxiety or concern regarding a future event or situation. For example, "Many students "are apprehensive about" taking standardized tests due to the pressure to perform well."

What are some alternatives to "be apprehensive about"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "be worried about", "be concerned about", or "feel anxious about" to express similar sentiments.

Is it formal or informal to say "be apprehensive about"?

"Be apprehensive about" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its usage depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and sentence structure rather than the phrase itself.

What's the difference between "be apprehensive about" and "be afraid of"?

While both express a sense of unease, "be afraid of" often indicates a more direct and immediate fear. "Be apprehensive about" suggests a more anticipatory anxiety or concern about potential future outcomes.