developed a fear of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "developed a fear of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where someone has come to experience fear or anxiety about a specific thing or situation over time. Example: "After the accident, she developed a fear of driving on the highway."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"I felt I'd developed a fear of committing to anything.

The Guardian - Music

He has not developed a fear of flying since Sept. 11.

The New York Times

He'd just said goodbye to his baby daughter, and he had developed a fear of flying.

The New Yorker

But last year she developed a fear of jumping from one bar to the other in the uneven bars event.

The New York Times - Sports

I used to rock climb, I fly a helicopter, but from that day I developed a fear of heights.

Independent

It is one of his crotchets that he has developed a fear of her and claims — ridiculous as it sounds — that she somehow harms him.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

"Consequently everyone develops a fear of talking about it".

The New York Times - Arts

And yet, instead of developing a fear of water, Martin grows obsessed with it.

The New York Times - Books

This can lead to students developing a fear of failure and putting up a front.

The Guardian

One day he develops a fear of bridges manifested when driving a car across one.

The New Yorker

Again, according to the Centers for Disease Control: "Many people who fall, even if they are not injured, develop a fear of falling.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "developed a fear of", ensure the context clearly indicates the cause or trigger of the fear. For example, "After the earthquake, she developed a fear of enclosed spaces."

Common error

Avoid using "developed a fear of" when the fear is sudden and immediate. Use phrases like "became afraid" or "was frightened by" to convey a more instantaneous reaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "developed a fear of" functions as a verb phrase indicating the process of acquiring fear related to a specific object, situation, or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its proper use in describing the gradual onset of fear.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

23%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "developed a fear of" is a common and grammatically sound way to express how someone has come to experience fear related to something specific. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific discussions, and general writing. While the phrase is generally considered neutral, it's essential to understand its subtle differences from related phrases like "developed a phobia of", which implies a more severe and persistent condition. When using "developed a fear of", ensure the context accurately reflects the gradual nature of the fear's development and clearly indicates any underlying causes or triggers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquired a fear of

Focuses on the act of gaining a fear, similar to developing, but with a slightly more sudden implication.

gained a fear of

Similar to 'acquired a fear of', emphasizing the obtaining of the fear.

cultivated a fear of

Suggests a more gradual and nurtured development of fear.

came to fear

A more straightforward way of expressing the start of fearing something.

grew to fear

Implies a gradual increase in fear over time.

began to fear

Indicates the starting point of experiencing fear.

formed a fear of

Focuses on the creation or establishment of a fear.

evolved a fear of

Suggests a natural or gradual transformation into a state of fear.

developed an aversion to

Shifts the focus from fear to a strong dislike or revulsion.

became afraid of

A simple and direct way to express the onset of fear.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "developed a fear of" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "acquired a fear of", "cultivated a fear of", or "evolved a fear of". These options often lend a more sophisticated tone to your writing.

What's the difference between "developed a fear of" and "developed a phobia of"?

"Developed a fear of" implies a general sense of anxiety or apprehension, while "developed a phobia of" suggests a more intense, irrational, and persistent fear that can significantly impact daily life. A phobia is a diagnosed psychological condition.

Is it correct to say "developed a fear for" instead of "developed a fear of"?

While "developed a fear for" isn't grammatically incorrect, it conveys a different meaning. "Developed a fear of" means becoming afraid of something directly. "Developed a fear for" suggests developing concern or worry for someone's well-being.

What are some common things people "develop a fear of"?

Common examples include "developed a fear of" flying, heights, public speaking, spiders, or enclosed spaces. These fears often stem from negative experiences, learned behaviors, or psychological factors.