extreme fear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extreme fear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a heightened or intense level of fear in various contexts, such as literature, psychology, or personal experiences. Example: "As the storm approached, she was overcome by an extreme fear that paralyzed her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Extreme fear, then relief, then happiness.

The Economist

With all there is extreme fear.

The New York Times - Books

It was a city of extreme violence and extreme fear.

The New York Times

Anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines help reduce the symptoms of extreme fear and worry.

Harvard University

(3) That whole "extreme fear and loathing" thing is a load of bollocks.

The Guardian - Music

Written in 1947, the novel is a chilling portrayal of extreme fear under dictatorship.

The Guardian - Books

Sun Editorial, July 22 "Understandably, many people suffered moments of extreme fear [on Thursday].

The Guardian

In such intense situations, particularly those involving extreme fear, Dr. Brand said: "You go through a transformation.

The New York Times

After the verdict, Senussi's London-based lawyer, Ben Emmerson QC, said the trial had been conducted "in an atmosphere of extreme fear, insecurity and intimidation".

Independent

It seems to a friend of Parfit's that his theory of personal identity is motivated by an extreme fear of death.

The New Yorker

Some argue that Uganda's initial AIDS-prevention success was based on the extreme fear that the disease generated among the population.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing emotional states in writing, use "extreme fear" to accurately portray intense apprehension. Consider adding sensory details to amplify the feeling for the reader.

Common error

While "extreme fear" accurately describes intense emotion, overuse in casual conversation or informal writing can sound melodramatic. Opt for simpler terms like "very scared" or "terrified" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extreme fear" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "extreme" modifies the noun "fear", intensifying its meaning. Ludwig examples showcase its use in describing heightened states of apprehension or dread in various contexts. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

24%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extreme fear" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a very high level of fear. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It's commonly found in news, science, and academic contexts, serving to emphasize the intensity of the emotion. While versatile, consider context and avoid overuse in informal settings where simpler terms might be more appropriate. Related phrases include "intense fear" and "overwhelming fear", which offer similar meanings with slight nuances. When writing, remember that using "extreme fear" accurately portrays intense apprehension. To effectively convey the emotion, combine it with sensory details to enhance the reader's understanding and connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense fear

Replaces "extreme" with "intense", emphasizing the high degree of fear.

acute fear

Uses "acute" to denote a sudden and severe onset of fear.

overwhelming fear

Highlights the overpowering nature of the fear.

profound fear

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the fear.

deep-seated fear

Indicates that the fear is deeply ingrained and long-lasting.

consuming fear

Suggests that the fear is all-encompassing and dominates one's thoughts.

crippling fear

Implies that the fear is debilitating and prevents normal functioning.

abject terror

Replaces "fear" with "terror" to signify a more heightened state of fear.

utter dread

Uses "dread" to convey a sense of impending doom and anxiety.

palpable anxiety

Indicates that the anxiety is so intense it can almost be felt physically.

FAQs

How can I use "extreme fear" in a sentence?

You can use "extreme fear" to describe situations where someone experiences intense fright, such as: "The survivors spoke of the "extreme fear" they felt during the earthquake."

What are some synonyms for "extreme fear"?

Alternatives to "extreme fear" include "intense fear", "overwhelming fear", or "acute fear", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "extreme fear" or "intense fear"?

Both "extreme fear" and "intense fear" are correct, but "extreme" suggests a higher degree of severity. The best choice depends on the context and the level of emotion you wish to express.

What causes "extreme fear"?

"Extreme fear" can be triggered by a variety of factors, including trauma, phobias, or perceived threats. Understanding the cause can be crucial for addressing and managing such intense emotional responses.