observed with apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "observed with apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation or event that is watched or noticed with a feeling of anxiety or fear about what might happen. Example: "The scientists observed the changes in the environment with apprehension, fearing the potential consequences of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It is also being observed with apprehension by some British military commanders who fear it might undermine their influence and role in Afghanistan, where the population suspects their troops will pack up and go home as soon as possible.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A floor effect was observed for the apprehension dimension with 28% of patients reporting the lowest possible score, and a ceiling effect was observed for the patient knowledge dimension with 30% of patients reporting the highest possible score.

BMC Ophthalmology

During the first of his three years in prison, Perry had observed Willie-Jay from a distance, with interest but with apprehension; if one wished to be thought a tough specimen, intimacy with Willie-Jay seemed unwise.

The New Yorker

Javaid Khan watched with apprehension.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some viewed the gamble with apprehension.

The New Yorker

And so I did — but with apprehension.

The New York Times

Yingluck looked at him with apprehension.

Independent

Then, with apprehension, I had a look.

The Guardian - Tech

The security council heaves with apprehension.

The Guardian

And so, with apprehension, they had a look.

The Guardian - Tech

Mr. Barzani has watched all of this with apprehension.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional intensity you wish to convey; "apprehension" suggests a level of anxiety, so ensure it aligns with the context of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "observed with apprehension" when the situation warrants a milder term like "concern" or "interest". Using a strong term like "apprehension" in a minor situation can undermine the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "observed with apprehension" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate the manner in which something is being observed. It adds a layer of emotional context, highlighting the observer's anxiety or fear regarding the observed subject. This is supported by the Ludwig AI which confirms that the phrase is usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "observed with apprehension" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe watching something with a sense of anxiety or fear. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While not exceedingly common, it appears across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. When employing this phrase, ensure that the subject and object are clearly defined and the emotional intensity aligns with the context. Alternatives such as "viewed with unease" or "watched with concern" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Viewed with unease

Changes "apprehension" to "unease", emphasizing discomfort and anxiety.

Watched with concern

Substitutes "apprehension" with "concern", highlighting worry and care.

Noticed with worry

Replaces "observed" with "noticed" and "apprehension" with "worry", focusing on anxiety.

Followed with anxiety

Changes "observed" to "followed" and "apprehension" to "anxiety", emphasizing anxious tracking.

Monitored with trepidation

Replaces "observed" with "monitored" and "apprehension" with "trepidation", adding a sense of dread.

Regarded with misgivings

Changes "observed" to "regarded" and "apprehension" to "misgivings", indicating doubts and reservations.

Perceived with disquiet

Substitutes "observed" with "perceived" and "apprehension" with "disquiet", highlighting a sense of unease.

Witnessed with foreboding

Replaces "observed" with "witnessed" and "apprehension" with "foreboding", suggesting a sense of impending doom.

Examined with suspicion

Changes "observed" to "examined" and "apprehension" to "suspicion", indicating distrust.

Contemplated with dread

Replaces "observed" with "contemplated" and "apprehension" with "dread", emphasizing intense fear.

FAQs

What does "observed with apprehension" mean?

It means something was watched or noticed with a feeling of anxiety or fear about what might happen.

How can I use "observed with apprehension" in a sentence?

Example: "The scientists "observed with apprehension" the rising sea levels, fearing the consequences for coastal communities."

What are some alternatives to "observed with apprehension"?

You can use alternatives like "viewed with unease", "watched with concern", or "noticed with worry depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "observed with apprehension" instead of "watched with interest"?

"Observed with apprehension" implies a sense of worry or fear about potential negative outcomes, while "watched with interest" suggests curiosity without anxiety. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the emotional tone of the situation.