have some jitters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have some jitters" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe feelings of nervousness or anxiety, often before a significant event or performance. Example: "Before her big presentation, she couldn't help but have some jitters, but she knew she was well-prepared."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Playing in her first junior slam on a U.S.T.A. wild card, Crawford may have some jitters, but if she hits the ball on the sweet spot, chances are good it will be a winner.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sam had some jitters himself.

The New York Times

Ms. Chung acknowledged having some jitters.

The New York Times

Still, Mr. Bird recalls Paramount having some jitters during the early shoots.

The New York Times

Goodwin, who also acknowledged having some jitters early in the game, had a different thought.

The New York Times - Sports

Eaton admitted afterward that the Cowboys had some jitters entering the game.

The New York Times - Sports

"I had some jitters," Lin said Saturday, noting it was his first turn with the Knicks' starters and his first chance to play in the first quarter.

The New York Times - Sports

Matthew, who's already a Grade 5 standard violinist, admitted to Sky News that he had some jitters when he first began orchestrating.

HuffPost

As we close up shop on the Games in South Korea, I still have some nervous jitters about the closing ceremony, but, at the very least, it'll mark the end of my irrational worries.

The New Yorker

The star running back Terrell Davis expects to have some big-time jitters when the Denver Broncos play their first preseason game Saturday at Arizona.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, my '01 test car, an "inferno red" LX with a beige interior and a $26,280 sticker, had some mild jitters, too.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have some jitters" to describe a mild state of nervousness, especially before a performance, event, or new experience. It's suitable when the feeling is temporary and not overwhelming.

Common error

Avoid using "have some jitters" to describe severe anxiety or panic attacks. This phrase is appropriate for mild nervousness, but stronger emotions require more descriptive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have some jitters" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a state of nervousness or anxiety. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It typically describes a temporary emotional state before a significant event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have some jitters" describes a feeling of mild nervousness or anxiety, often experienced before an important event or new situation. Ludwig AI indicates that this expression is correct and suitable for general written English. While grammatically sound, it is crucial to use this phrase appropriately, reserving it for describing mild, temporary anxiety rather than severe emotional distress. Alternatives such as "feel nervous" or "be apprehensive" can be used depending on the context. Predominantly found in news and sports contexts, this phrase provides a relatable way to express a common human experience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be jittery

Highlights the physical manifestation of nervousness.

feel nervous

Focuses directly on the emotion of nervousness.

feel uneasy

Conveys a general sense of discomfort or disquiet.

feel anxious

Similar to nervous, but implies worry about future events.

experience anxiety

Implies a more intense and prolonged state of unease.

be worried

Emphasizes concern about potential problems or outcomes.

be on edge

Describes a state of heightened tension and alertness.

be apprehensive

Suggests a feeling of dread or anticipation of something negative.

be concerned

Suggests a deeper level of worry or responsibility.

feel butterflies in stomach

Figurative expression for nervousness, specifically before an event.

FAQs

What does it mean to "have some jitters"?

To "have some jitters" means to feel nervous or anxious, typically before an event or important situation. It's a way to describe a mild state of unease or excitement.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "have some jitters"?

It's appropriate to use "have some jitters" when describing a feeling of mild nervousness, such as before a performance, a first date, or starting a new job. It's less suitable for describing severe anxiety.

What are some alternative phrases for "have some jitters"?

You can use alternatives like "feel nervous", "feel anxious", or "be apprehensive" depending on the context.

Is "have some jitters" a formal or informal expression?

"Have some jitters" is generally considered an informal expression. While it can be used in news and media, it's best to avoid it in highly formal or academic writing.