chill of fear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chill of fear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of fear that causes a physical reaction, often associated with a sudden realization or a frightening situation. Example: "As she walked through the dark alley, a chill of fear ran down her spine when she heard footsteps behind her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

13 12 2 CHILL OF FEAR, by Kay Hooper.

The New York Times

The coming conference has sent a chill of fear through many of the day laborers.

The New York Times

The chill of fear their policies sent through immigrant communities has undercut responsible local efforts to fight crime.

The New York Times

I see them texting or playing on their phones and a chill of fear for the nation runs through me.

The Guardian - Books

We tell them these are the creatures that didn't make it to the Ark . " "I felt a chill of fear," Mr. Deak said.

The New York Times - Science

A woman running out of the alley sobbed and yelled that "Barak should see this with his own two eyes!" The sirens, the scorched smell and the chill of fear were instantly familiar to Jerusalem residents, as were the television images of medics lining up gurneys outside a hospital emergency room.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

When I read the last line, chills of fear and disgust literally shot up my spine.

Huffington Post

I welcomed the news--two babies --and at the same time felt a chill of raw fear.

Huffington Post

For a long time even simple things, like the beautiful fall sky, could trigger the chill of recalling the fear.

The New York Times

When I listen now to their albums, what I hear most indelibly is the chill of loneliness and fear.

The New York Times - Books

Details of nasty procedures, such as the "Exchange" (a blood-brothers ritual) and "Mazement" (the invasion of another's thoughts), explain why fresh blood is needed, and describe the undead's constant chill and fear of light, as well as the efficacy of holy water and silver knives.London's quiet yards and back streets are named and specific.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "chill of fear" to vividly describe a sudden, intense sensation of fear, often in response to a specific event or realization. It is most effective when emphasizing the physical reaction to the emotion.

Common error

Avoid using "chill of fear" to describe mild or generalized anxiety. This phrase is best reserved for moments of acute, visceral fear, not for everyday worries. It's too strong for describing simple nervousness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chill of fear" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence to describe a sudden, intense sensation of fear. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI, which identifies the phrase as both grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "chill of fear" is a grammatically sound noun phrase employed to vividly portray a sudden, intense sensation of fear. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, underscoring its function in conveying both physical and emotional responses to frightening situations. While not overly common, the phrase finds its place primarily in neutral contexts like news and media, adding a dramatic flair to descriptions of fear. While phrases such as "shiver of fright" or "wave of dread" offer similar connotations, "chill of fear" distinctly emphasizes the immediate and physical impact of fear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shiver of fright

Focuses on the physical manifestation of fear through trembling or shivering.

wave of dread

Emphasizes the overwhelming nature of fear, suggesting a sudden and intense experience.

stab of alarm

Conveys a sudden and sharp feeling of fear or panic.

shadow of terror

Highlights the looming presence and oppressive nature of fear.

cold sweat of anxiety

Highlights the physical symptom of anxiety, such as cold sweat, to intensify the emotion of fear.

palpable sense of foreboding

Suggests a strong feeling that something bad is about to happen, creating an atmosphere of fear.

tinge of apprehension

Indicates a slight or subtle feeling of fear or anxiety.

flush of panic

Expresses a sudden burst of intense fear leading to uncontrolled behavior.

prickle of unease

Suggests a more subtle and physical sensation of discomfort or anxiety.

hint of trepidation

Implies a cautious or hesitant approach due to a slight degree of fear or uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "chill of fear" in a sentence?

The phrase "chill of fear" describes a sudden and intense feeling of fear. For example: "As she walked through the dark alley, a "chill of fear" ran down her spine."

What's a similar phrase to "chill of fear"?

Alternatives to "chill of fear" include phrases like "shiver of fright", "wave of dread", or "tinge of apprehension", depending on the intensity of the fear you wish to convey.

Is "chill of fear" a common expression?

While grammatically correct and readily understood, "chill of fear" is not as frequently used as other expressions like "sense of dread" or "feeling of unease".

What does "chill of fear" emphasize in writing?

The phrase "chill of fear" emphasizes the immediate and physical impact of fear on a person. It's more dramatic than simply saying someone is afraid.