is apprehensive about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is apprehensive about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing concern or anxiety regarding a particular situation or outcome. Example: "She is apprehensive about the upcoming exam, fearing she may not perform well."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Everyone is apprehensive about the I.R.S.

The New York Times

The Audubo Society is apprehensive about the beacons.

The New Yorker

He says he is apprehensive about how susceptible he is to both "stress" and to "regret".

The New York Times - Magazine

Whenever Joey is apprehensive about things he plays an electronic game called Asteroids.

The New Yorker

But Fynn-Nyame is apprehensive about what will end up in the final set of goals.

The Guardian

At the same time, he acknowledged that "most of the Muslim community is apprehensive about confronting radicals.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Eric was apprehensive about the whole idea.

The New Yorker

"I was apprehensive about it," she said.

The New York Times

He was apprehensive about the premiere.

The New York Times - Style

But I was apprehensive about the show on Broadway.

The New York Times

Evert also acknowledged that she was apprehensive about Richards.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is apprehensive about" to convey a sense of unease or worry about future events or potential outcomes. It's stronger than simply being "concerned" but less intense than being "afraid."

Common error

Avoid using "anxious" as a direct substitute for "apprehensive" in all contexts. While both indicate worry, "anxious" often implies a more prolonged state of distress, whereas "apprehensive" usually refers to a specific upcoming event or situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is apprehensive about" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, expressing a subject's state of anxiety or unease regarding a specific situation or event. Ludwig examples confirm its role in describing feelings of worry about potential future outcomes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is apprehensive about" is a versatile way to express feelings of worry or unease regarding future events or possibilities. Ludwig's analysis, drawing from a substantial number of examples, confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While synonyms like "is worried about" or "is concerned about" exist, understanding the specific nuance of "is apprehensive about"—a state of unease about something specific and upcoming—allows for more precise and effective communication. The Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is worried about

General concern or anxiety.

is concerned about

Similar to worried, but may imply a sense of responsibility or care.

is anxious about

Suggests a higher level of nervousness or agitation.

is uneasy about

Implies a feeling of discomfort or uncertainty.

is fearful of

Highlights the presence of fear or dread.

is dreading

Suggests a strong dislike and anticipation of something negative.

has misgivings about

Implies doubts or reservations.

is skeptical about

Expresses doubt and disbelief.

is reluctant about

Indicates unwillingness or hesitation.

is hesitant about

Similar to reluctant, but may be due to uncertainty rather than opposition.

FAQs

What does "is apprehensive about" mean?

The phrase "is apprehensive about" means feeling anxious or uneasy about something that might happen in the future. It indicates a sense of worry or concern about a potential outcome.

How can I use "is apprehensive about" in a sentence?

You can use "is apprehensive about" to express concern or anxiety. For example, "She "is apprehensive about" the upcoming presentation" or "He "is apprehensive about" traveling alone".

What are some alternatives to "is apprehensive about"?

Some alternatives to "is apprehensive about" include "is worried about", "is concerned about", "is anxious about", or "is uneasy about". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I'm apprehensive for" instead of "I'm apprehensive about"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "apprehensive" is "about". Saying "I'm apprehensive for" is grammatically incorrect. Always use "I'm apprehensive about" to express your worries or concerns.