feared for him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feared for him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing concern or anxiety about someone's safety or well-being. Example: "After hearing about the dangerous situation, she feared for him and hoped he would be safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I feared for him, even if he didn't fear for himself.

The New Yorker

I feared for him, again — but he did his set, and he killed.

The New Yorker

You genuinely feared for him, even as the replay confirmed that he had not been touched.

The Guardian - Sport

I feared for him, again but he did his set, and he killed.

The New Yorker

Later, at their stilted wooden home, Doungsamone's parents tell me that the fate they most feared for him, even more than rice farming, was that he'd go to work by the river.

The Guardian

His Wallander – emotionally difficult, brooding and self-fancying – has never invited the viewer's warmth, but in his Lear-like roaring against this new, cruel, unreadable fate we feared for him and of course ourselves.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

We don't fear for him.

The New York Times

I cannot ask him to join us there now, as I would fear for him".

The New York Times

You understand, at every instant, what the Ghost feels and knows, and you fear for him.

The New Yorker

Now it's Edward's turn to bat, and I must admit I fear for him.

Independent

"I fear for him, the response of the court of public opinion," Mr. Smith said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "feared for him", ensure the context clearly indicates the source of the fear and the specific potential harm anticipated. For example, "She feared for him because he was working in a dangerous environment."

Common error

Avoid using "feared for him" in situations where a milder form of concern, such as "worried about him", would be more appropriate. Overstating the emotion can sound melodramatic or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feared for him" functions as a verb phrase expressing a strong emotional response of worry or apprehension on behalf of another person. The use of the verb "feared" intensifies the concern beyond simple worry. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is often used in contexts where there is a perceived threat or danger.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "feared for him" effectively communicates a strong sense of worry or apprehension regarding someone's well-being or safety. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and best used when the speaker wishes to express more than just a simple concern, suggesting a deeper, more profound worry. While commonly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, it should be used judiciously to avoid overstatement. Consider alternatives such as "worried about him" or "concerned for his safety" for less intense situations. Overall, "feared for him" is a valid and expressive phrase when used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had worries about him

A more casual and direct expression of concern.

worried about him

Replaces "feared" with a more common term expressing concern, softening the intensity of the emotion.

concerned for his safety

Specifically focuses on the aspect of safety, adding clarity to the nature of the concern.

apprehensive about his well-being

Uses more formal vocabulary to express concern about overall well-being.

anxious for his sake

Highlights the emotional distress experienced on behalf of the other person.

had misgivings about him

Indicates a sense of doubt or unease regarding the person's situation or choices.

felt uneasy about him

Expresses a general feeling of discomfort or worry related to the person.

was troubled by thoughts of him

Focuses on the recurring nature of the concern and its mental impact.

trembled for his fate

Emphasizes a sense of dread and the possibility of a negative outcome.

was solicitous for his health

Emphasizes concern specifically for the person's physical condition.

FAQs

How can I use "feared for him" in a sentence?

Use "feared for him" to express a strong feeling of worry or apprehension about someone's safety or well-being. For instance, "After hearing the news report, she feared for him and hoped he was safe".

What's a less intense way to say "feared for him"?

If you want to express a milder form of concern, you could use alternatives like "worried about him" or "concerned about his wellbeing".

Is it correct to say "I feared for his safety"?

Yes, "I feared for his safety" is a grammatically correct and natural way to express that you were worried about someone's well-being, specifically regarding their safety.

What is the difference between "feared for him" and "was afraid for him"?

While both convey concern, "feared for him" suggests a deeper, more profound worry. "Was "was afraid for him"" might indicate a more immediate or situational fear.