filled with trepidation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "filled with trepidation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of fear or anxiety about something that is about to happen. Example: "As she stood at the edge of the cliff, she was filled with trepidation about the jump."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The grandmother was filled with trepidation.

The New York Times - Magazine

We were filled with trepidation and anxiety.

The Guardian - Opinion

Filled with trepidation about being a misfit again, I became an Ed School student.

Harvard University

For New Yorkers, "Do you work downtown?" might be filled with trepidation.

The New York Times

And even though he didn't think it a necessity, my partner was thrilled, if filled with trepidation, about trying surrogacy.

The New York Times

Every day as doctors start work at emergency departments across the country we are filled with trepidation.

The Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

I should be filled with both trepidation and excitement about the opportunities a new decade could bring.

The Guardian - Opinion

Until you rip through one Chemex filter, and then every time after that is filled with terrible trepidation.

HuffPost

Filled with the trepidation of vertigo and the thrilling sensation of falling through air untethered, bridges innately carry an uncertainty to them.

Vice

When I was invited to interview the current occupant, President Pranab Mukherjee, I was filled with some trepidation, although over a 50-year career in international journalism I'd met scores of world leaders.

Huffington Post

As happy as we were to be expecting, I was filled with fear and trepidation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. "Filled with trepidation" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, but more formal synonyms may be preferable in some academic or professional contexts.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "filled with trepidation" too frequently in casual conversation or informal writing can sound overly dramatic or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "nervous" or "anxious" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "filled with trepidation" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of being. It indicates that someone is experiencing a mix of fear and anticipation, often about something that is about to happen. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "filled with trepidation" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe a state of mixed fear and anticipation. Ludwig AI analysis, with multiple examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, validates its appropriate usage in neutral to slightly formal contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, remember that the expression, while correct, is not suitable for the extremely casual setting, other phrases like "anxious about" might fit well. Always consider the context to make sure it fits well. In summary, "filled with trepidation" adds emotional depth but benefits from careful application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

filled with anxiety

Emphasizes the anxious aspect of the feeling, focusing on worry and unease rather than just fear.

overcome with apprehension

Highlights the feeling of dread or foreboding about a future event.

filled with fear

A more direct and less nuanced way to express being afraid or scared.

consumed by worry

Focuses on the mental aspect of being preoccupied with anxious thoughts.

filled with misgivings

Suggests a sense of doubt or uncertainty about a course of action or future event.

fraught with concern

Emphasizes the presence of worry and potential problems surrounding a situation.

anxious about

A simpler and more direct way of expressing worry or nervousness.

with considerable unease

Highlights the feeling of discomfort and worry about something.

nervous about

Implies a lighter sense of unease or agitation compared to trepidation.

in a state of alarm

Emphasizes a sudden and intense feeling of fear or danger.

FAQs

How can I use "filled with trepidation" in a sentence?

You can use "filled with trepidation" to describe someone's emotional state when facing something uncertain or potentially dangerous. For example, "She was "filled with trepidation" as she approached the dark forest."

What's a less formal way to say "filled with trepidation"?

Less formal alternatives include "anxious about", "nervous about", or even just "worried about". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it ever incorrect to use "filled with trepidation"?

While grammatically correct, using "filled with trepidation" in extremely casual or lighthearted contexts might sound out of place. It's best suited for situations where a sense of unease or fear is genuinely present.

What's the difference between "filled with trepidation" and "filled with fear"?

"Filled with fear" is a more general and direct expression of being scared. "Filled with trepidation" implies a more nuanced mix of fear and anticipation, suggesting a specific event or situation that is causing unease and worry.