paralyzing fear

USAGE SUMMARY

"paralyzing fear" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe an intense fear that immobilizes someone, preventing them from taking action or making decisions. Example: The thought of giving a presentation in front of a large audience filled her with paralyzing fear, causing her hands to shake and her voice to tremble.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Many children here suffer from nightmares and paralyzing fear.

The New York Times

"Step through the portals of paralyzing fear," said one video box.

The New York Times

They now live in persistent, paralyzing fear of robbery, or worse, at the hands of the hungry, discontented masses.

The New York Times

"The horrible, paralyzing fear I had about leaving New York City was, 'What am I going to drink?' " he recalled.

The New York Times - Food

Patients with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases and paralyzing fear are also candidates for dental anesthesia.

The New York Times

While elections often turn on ideas, this one might also be swayed by a paralyzing fear of the other guy.

The New York Times

After all, we know you've got that special something that sets you apart: a paralyzing fear of squirrels.

The New Yorker

In the long run, threat inflation — the exaggerations that encourage paralyzing fear — may be far more harmful than monetary inflation.

The New Yorker

Watching how the seep of information stirred ordinary Russians from a paralyzing fear was one of the true joys of covering Moscow's spring.

The New York Times - Magazine

This melding of local crime fighting and immigration enforcement has led to unjust imprisonment, policing abuses, racial profiling and paralyzing fear in immigrant communities.

The New York Times

And it also requires that Cristen mount an all-points battle against her anxieties, which extend to a paralyzing fear of snails.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "paralyzing fear", ensure the context clearly illustrates the immobilizing effect of the fear on the subject. Show, don't just tell, how the fear prevents action or decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "paralyzing fear" when describing mild or moderate fear. This phrase denotes a very intense level of fear that completely inhibits function; using it inappropriately weakens its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "paralyzing fear" functions as a descriptive term, specifying the intensity and effect of fear. It modifies the noun "fear", indicating that it is so severe that it causes immobilization. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

26%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "paralyzing fear" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an intense fear that inhibits action. Ludwig AI validates its frequent usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly shows the immobilizing effect of the fear. Alternatives such as "debilitating fear" or "overwhelming dread" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Avoid using "paralyzing fear" to describe milder forms of fear, as this can dilute its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

debilitating fear

Emphasizes the weakening effect of the fear.

immobilizing terror

Directly describes the terror's power to stop movement.

overwhelming dread

Highlights the intensity and magnitude of the fear.

crippling anxiety

Focuses on the anxiety aspect that causes paralysis.

intense terror

Stresses the extreme level of fear experienced.

overpowering panic

Highlights the feeling of being overwhelmed and losing control.

consuming apprehension

Implies that the fear takes over one's thoughts and actions.

severe fright

Emphasizes a strong and sudden fear reaction.

acute phobia

Indicates a severe and specific fear.

extreme trepidation

Conveys a sense of anxiety and nervousness.

FAQs

How can I use "paralyzing fear" in a sentence?

You can use "paralyzing fear" to describe a situation where someone is so afraid that they are unable to move or think clearly. For example, "The thought of public speaking filled her with a "paralyzing fear".".

What are some alternatives to "paralyzing fear"?

Alternatives include "debilitating fear", "overwhelming dread", or "crippling anxiety", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "paralyzing fear" a clinical term?

"Paralyzing fear" is not strictly a clinical term, but it describes a state that can be associated with anxiety disorders or phobias. If someone experiences this regularly, seeking professional help is recommended.

What causes a "paralyzing fear"?

A "paralyzing fear" can be caused by a variety of factors, including traumatic experiences, phobias, or generalized anxiety. It's often associated with a perceived threat or danger, whether real or imagined.