i dread

USAGE SUMMARY

"I dread" is correct in written English.
You can use it when you are expressing a feeling of fear or apprehension about something. For example, "I dread the thought of having to work late tonight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I dread a scene.

The New Yorker

It's something I dread.

The New York Times

I dread every noise.

The New York Times

"I dread it," he said.

The New York Times

I dread the jocund autumn.

The New Yorker

"I dread to think".

The Guardian - Music

I dread these chores.

The New York Times

I dread causing a scene.

The Washington Post

I dread the thought of it".

The New Yorker

I dread opening her e-mail.

The New York Times

"And I dread saying it because I dread his response".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I dread" to clearly convey a sense of apprehension or fear about something specific. It is most effective when the object of your dread is clearly stated. For example, "I dread the upcoming performance review."

Common error

Avoid using "I dread" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your tone sound overly negative or dramatic. Vary your language by using alternatives like "I am apprehensive about" or "I am anxious about" to maintain a balanced and nuanced perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I dread" primarily functions as a declarative statement expressing a personal feeling of apprehension or fear. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, affirming its direct and clear communicative function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I dread" is a common and grammatically correct way to express feelings of apprehension or fear. Ludwig AI confirms that this usage aligns with standard English. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register suitable for broad communication. While effective, it's advisable to vary your language to avoid overuse. Consider alternatives like "I am apprehensive about" or "I am anxious about" to maintain nuanced expression in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am anxious about

This expresses worry and unease about a future event or situation.

I am fearful of

This is a straightforward expression of fear regarding something.

I am apprehensive about

This suggests a feeling of anxiety or fear that something bad or unpleasant will happen.

I shudder to think

This conveys a strong feeling of revulsion or fear when considering something.

I view with trepidation

This indicates that something is approached with fear and nervousness.

I shrink from the idea

This suggests a recoiling or avoidance of a particular thought or action.

I recoil at the thought

This phrase suggests a strong aversion or disgust towards something.

I anticipate with anxiety

This alternative highlights the anxious anticipation of something unpleasant.

I foresee with apprehension

This phrase emphasizes a fearful prediction of something to come.

I am filled with foreboding

This expresses a sense of impending doom or misfortune.

FAQs

What does "I dread" mean?

The phrase "I dread" expresses a strong feeling of fear, apprehension, or reluctance about something that is going to happen or might happen. It indicates a negative anticipation of an event or situation.

How can I use "I dread" in a sentence?

You can use "I dread" to express your negative anticipation of an event. For example, "I dread the long commute to work every morning" or "I dread having to speak in public."

What can I say instead of "I dread"?

You can use alternatives like "I am apprehensive about", "I am anxious about", or "I fear" depending on the context. These options offer similar meanings with varying degrees of intensity.

Is it better to say "I dread" or "I am dreading"?

Both "I dread" and "I am dreading" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "I dread" is simpler and more direct, while "I am dreading" implies a more ongoing or immediate feeling of apprehension. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.