flicker of apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flicker of apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief moment of fear or anxiety that someone experiences in a situation. Example: "As she entered the dark room, a flicker of apprehension crossed her mind, making her hesitate for a moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The only flicker of apprehension came when Ranieri was asked afterwards about the Barcelona chants.

The Guardian - Sport

Liverpool began the game like a team in a hurry, not showing a flicker of apprehension, and had strong penalty claims of their own because of two Kostas Manolas challenges either side of Mané's goal.

The Guardian - Sport

This close up, there's an inevitable fracturing of the choreographic big picture, but there are compensations – the flicker of apprehension on Charlotte Eatock's face as she swings into a difficult reverse turn and the giddy flash of triumph as she pulls it off; the racy, sinewy closeness of it all.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Even here, though, I sense flickers of apprehension in the way the characters are framed — gestures toward an intensity that outgleams their domestic plight, as if Lean were already aware that the writer's brand of passion was not enough.

The New Yorker

"A little bit of apprehension.

The New York Times - Sports

It definitely creates a bit of apprehension".

The Guardian - Sport

"There is a state of apprehension.

The New York Times

They are different modes of apprehension.

The New York Times - Arts

Obviously, there was a lot of apprehension".

The New York Times

The classroom carried an air of apprehension.

The New Yorker

The sports minister's statements left an air of apprehension.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flicker of apprehension" to describe a brief and subtle moment of anxiety or fear, often preceding a more significant realization or event. It effectively conveys a nuanced emotional shift.

Common error

Avoid using "flicker of apprehension" to describe intense or prolonged fear; the phrase implies a brief, subtle feeling. If the fear is strong or lasting, use alternatives like "state of anxiety" or "overwhelmed by fear".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flicker of apprehension" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence, or as part of a prepositional phrase. It denotes a brief or subtle feeling of anxiety or fear. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "flicker of apprehension" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a brief moment of anxiety or fear. While considered rare, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as literature. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. To ensure accurate usage, remember that this expression is best suited for describing fleeting emotional states and not prolonged periods of intense fear. Alternatives such as "hint of unease" or "touch of anxiety" can be used depending on the precise nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fleeting apprehension

Stresses the momentary and brief nature of the feeling.

momentary unease

Emphasizes the transient nature of the discomfort.

hint of unease

Focuses on the slight discomfort or worry experienced.

touch of anxiety

Emphasizes the anxious component of the feeling.

brief anxiety

Short-lived anxious moment.

tinge of fear

Highlights the fear aspect of the emotional state.

trace of worry

Underscores the element of concern and possible future problems.

shadow of doubt

Shifts the focus to uncertainty and questioning.

whisper of concern

Suggests a subtle and quiet worry.

slight disquiet

Highlights a mild form of disturbance and unease.

FAQs

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

You can use "flicker of apprehension" to describe a brief moment of fear or anxiety, such as, "As she walked down the dark alley, a "flicker of apprehension" crossed her mind".

What's a good alternative to "flicker of apprehension"?

Alternatives include phrases like "hint of unease", "touch of anxiety", or "tinge of fear", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does "flicker of apprehension" imply about the duration of the feeling?

The word "flicker" suggests that the feeling is brief and momentary, not a sustained state of anxiety.

Is "flicker of apprehension" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "flicker of apprehension" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in descriptive or narrative contexts. It adds a layer of emotional depth without being overly dramatic.