feels nervous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feels nervous" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's emotional state, particularly in situations that may cause anxiety or apprehension. Example: "Before the big presentation, she feels nervous about speaking in front of the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"Everyone feels nervous even when they're successful," he continued.

The New York Times - Science

When China does well, the world feels nervous.

The Guardian - Opinion

During a brief break, I ask if he feels nervous.

The Guardian - Sport

She feels nervous about falling in love with him, but her work goes better.

The New Yorker

Young Dan is about to learn to drive but he feels nervous and would like to get some practice in.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Today the whole place feels nervous, jittery, as if 30,000 people have collectively downed a bunch of triple-espressos.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"I do feel nervous".

The New York Times

I feel nervous tonight.

The New Yorker

"I'll feel nervous, probably.

The New York Times

"I did feel nervous.

The Guardian - Music

"You feel nervous.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feels nervous" to describe a temporary state of anxiety or apprehension in a specific situation. For ongoing or chronic anxiety, consider using terms like "has anxiety" or "is prone to nervousness".

Common error

Avoid using "feels nervous" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms like "is anxious", "is apprehensive", or "is on edge" to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feels nervous" functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective, describing a state of being. As shown in Ludwig, it connects the subject to the feeling of nervousness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feels nervous" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a state of anxiety or apprehension. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in news and media, as well as in informal contexts like wikis. While the phrase is generally acceptable, varying your vocabulary with synonyms like "is anxious" or "is apprehensive" can improve writing quality and avoid repetition. Using the phrase accurately involves recognizing the specific situations and contexts where it is most appropriate, thus enhancing clarity and expressiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is anxious

A more general term for worry and unease.

is uneasy

Suggests a lack of comfort or peace of mind.

is apprehensive

Implies a sense of foreboding or anxiety about something that might happen.

is worried

Focuses on concern about a specific issue or situation.

is on edge

Implies a heightened state of alertness and tension.

is jittery

Describes physical restlessness and nervousness.

is frightened

Indicates a stronger feeling of fear or alarm.

is scared

A more common and direct way of expressing fear.

is insecure

Focuses on a lack of confidence and self-assurance, leading to nervousness.

is uptight

Suggests tension and rigidity, often in social situations.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone "feels nervous"?

When someone "feels nervous", it means they are experiencing a state of anxiety, apprehension, or unease, often in anticipation of an event or situation.

How can I describe the feeling of being "nervous" in other words?

You can use alternatives like "is anxious", "is apprehensive", or "is on edge", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "feels nervous", or should I use a different verb?

The phrase "feels nervous" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It accurately conveys the experience of nervousness.

What causes a person to "feel nervous"?

Many things can cause a person to "feel nervous", including stress, uncertainty, fear of failure, or social anxiety. The specific cause varies from person to person and situation to situation.