feeling of apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feeling of apprehension" is a correct and commonly used expression in written English.
It refers to a sense of unease, anxiety, or fear about something that may happen in the future. Example: As she waited for the results of her medical tests, Jane couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension that had been building up inside her.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Is there still a lingering feeling of apprehension and fear?

The New York Times

"This has created a feeling of apprehension," Mr. Khan said.

The New York Times

She left no name with the attendants who revived her - only a vague feeling of apprehension.

The New Yorker

This feeling of apprehension is carefully balanced by a sense of the relationships that Brockes develops with her mother's family.

The New Yorker

But the manual goes on to say that fear is "a natural feeling of apprehension when going into battle".

The New York Times

China is the great emerging force in the world, and the feeling of apprehension everywhere else must be good.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

As a result, feelings of "apprehension and anxiety" consumed the Cherokee people.

The New York Times

Before I go any further, let me admit to feelings of apprehension.

The New York Times

The children's emotional reactions included feelings of apprehension, tension, frustration or fear, while physical symptoms included butterflies, a racing heart or struggling to catch breath.

The Guardian

In interviews, students described feelings of apprehension towards the end of the summer and for many "the second year blues" have begun before they return to university.

The Guardian

They demonstrate the complexity of his exploration and learning activity, how he activates and constructs knowledge during action, and his emotional states that alternate between feelings of apprehension, enjoyment, and effort.

Computers & Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feeling of apprehension" when you want to express a specific sense of unease or anxiety about a potential future event. It's more precise than a general "feeling of anxiety".

Common error

While generally appropriate, avoid overusing "feeling of apprehension" in highly formal or scientific writing. Consider stronger, more precise terms depending on the specific context such as "heightened state of alert" or "elevated level of concern" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feeling of apprehension" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of mind or emotional condition. As Ludwig AI says, the phrase is commonly used and considered correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

26%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

13%

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feeling of apprehension" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to express unease or anxiety about a potential future event. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct expression. It functions as a noun phrase and is suitable for various contexts, though it is often found in News & Media and Science sources. While generally acceptable, consider more precise terms for highly formal or scientific writing. To avoid common mistakes, be mindful of overuse and context. Alternatives like "sense of unease" or "feeling of dread" may be more appropriate depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling of anxiety

A more clinical and general term for worry and unease.

feeling of dread

Emphasizes a more intense and foreboding sense of fear.

sense of unease

Focuses more on a general discomfort rather than specific fear.

uneasy feeling

Replaces the more formal term "apprehension" with a simpler word.

sense of foreboding

Implies a premonition of something bad to come.

nagging worry

Focuses on the persistent and bothersome nature of the concern.

atmosphere of anxiety

Shifts focus from personal feeling to the surrounding environment.

growing disquiet

Emphasizes the increasing sense of unease over time.

heightened anxiety

Highlights that the feeling is intense and elevated.

general anxiety

Highlights that the feeling is unspecific and not related to a particular event.

FAQs

How can I use "feeling of apprehension" in a sentence?

You can use "feeling of apprehension" to describe a sense of unease or anxiety about something that might happen. For example, "As the storm approached, a "feeling of apprehension" washed over the townspeople".

What's the difference between "feeling of anxiety" and "feeling of apprehension"?

"Feeling of anxiety" is a broader term for general worry, while "feeling of apprehension" implies a more specific, often anticipatory, unease about a particular event or situation.

What can I say instead of "feeling of apprehension"?

You can use alternatives like "sense of unease", "feeling of dread", or "uneasy feeling" depending on the context.

Is "feeling of apprehension" formal or informal?

"Feeling of apprehension" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. While it can be used in both formal and informal contexts, consider the audience and purpose to decide if a more precise or simpler term would be more appropriate.