have been apprehensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have been apprehensive" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a feeling of anxiety or unease that has been ongoing or has lasted for a period of time. Example: I have been apprehensive about starting my new job because I am not familiar with the company's procedures.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Just as centralized bureaucracy was traditionally distrusted at home, the Swiss also have been apprehensive about economic integration with Europe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That is because U.S. allies have been apprehensive about applying their own sanctions on Iranian oil, keeping it in the global market, he added.

The Washington Post

For months, Americans have been apprehensive as they neared Election Day, never able to turn away from the spectacle that was on their television screens and smartphones.

The Washington Post

With a few recent exceptions – most prominently, Texas conservative Ted Cruz – the Republicans who control the chamber have been apprehensive to endorse medical marijuana.

The Guardian

Openings were squandered by both sides before the interval and Tomasz Kuszczak, preferred to Ben Foster as the United goalkeeper, might have been apprehensive.

The Guardian - Sport

The play is the thing, and the fact that it is being sung rather than spoken becomes unimportant.There are indications, however, that George Tressler, the director, may have been apprehensive about the singing, especially at the beginning.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

We had been apprehensive about driving through places like Albania, but had found nothing but kindness.

The Guardian - Travel

Both had been apprehensive about online dating, which Ms. Shahzad said made her feel "like a loser".

The New York Times

John said they had been apprehensive when she first went to Afghanistan for the UN in 2005.

The Guardian

Having been apprehensive of an in-out EU referendum for two decades, my feelings have been transformed overnight.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Tamils, who speak the Dravidian language of India's southern Tamil Nadu state, had been apprehensive before.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have been apprehensive", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is anxious or uneasy about. Providing specific details enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

While "apprehensive" is a valid word, avoid overuse in formal writing. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "concerned", "anxious", or "hesitant" to add nuance and prevent repetition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have been apprehensive" functions as a verb phrase indicating a state of sustained or ongoing anxiety or unease. It's used to describe feelings of concern about future events or potential outcomes, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

12%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have been apprehensive" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase to express a state of sustained anxiety or unease. Ludwig's analysis indicates its frequent use in news and media, science, and academic contexts. The phrase functions to communicate concern about potential future events or outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and useful expression, suitable for both formal and informal communication. When writing, ensure the context clearly defines the cause of the apprehension for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

been worried

Emphasizes a state of concern or anxiety about something.

been concerned

Emphasizes a sense of care and worry about a particular issue.

been anxious

Focuses on a state of nervousness or agitation.

been uneasy about

Specifies that the discomfort is directed towards something

felt uneasy

Shifts the focus to a feeling of slight discomfort or anxiety.

been nervous

Expresses a state of heightened anticipation and anxiety.

been hesitant

Indicates a reluctance or pause due to uncertainty or fear.

been reluctant

Implies an unwillingness or disinclination to do something.

had misgivings

Highlights feelings of doubt or apprehension about the outcome or consequences.

been fearful

Highlights a state of being afraid or scared.

FAQs

How can I use "have been apprehensive" in a sentence?

You can use "have been apprehensive" to express a sustained feeling of unease or anxiety about something. For example, "Investors "have been apprehensive" about the new trading system".

What are some alternatives to "have been apprehensive"?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, you can use alternatives like "felt uneasy", "been worried", or "had misgivings".

Is it correct to say "I am apprehensive" or "I have been apprehensive"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. "I am apprehensive" describes a current feeling, while "I "have been apprehensive"" suggests a feeling that has persisted over time.

What's the difference between "have been apprehensive" and "have been anxious"?

"Have been anxious" generally implies a higher level of nervousness or agitation than ""have been apprehensive"". Apprehension often involves a specific concern or anticipation of something negative, while anxiety can be more generalized.