primary apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing initial understanding or perception of a concept or situation. Example: "Her primary apprehension about the project was the potential for failure."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is assumed, therefore, that the jaws were the primary agents of prey apprehension, and would need to be lowered to ground level to procure food.

Plosone

The first author, who has worked as a homeopath for many years, was interested in the apprehension about primary and secondary effects of the remedy, as she found discrepancies between the participants' understanding of these concepts and the homeopathic literature.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

His primary contribution lies in his apprehension of the formal unity of the world of experience.

Britannica

On the other hand, they revealed primary stakeholders and community professionals' apprehension with regard to the possible revitalisation process outputs within both economic and social aspects.

Cities

It seemed that the first factor included communication apprehension as a primary element (e.g., No. 13) and fear of negative evaluation as a secondary element (e.g., No. 31).

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Research conducted within mass culture over the past fifty years shows that advertising and mass media have increasingly become the primary sources for the presentation and apprehension of world views superseding even those constructed by religion and science.

Huffington Post

To analyse the level of social apprehension in people who use primary care centres and its relationship with their level of anxiety and illness behaviour.

Atención Primaria

Within the INS, the U.S. Border Patrol, which was first established in 1924, has the primary function of preventing the illegal entry of aliens and the apprehension of those who have entered illegally and those who smuggle these illegal entrants.

Cornell University

"The pre-primary education plays critical role to habituate first-time school attendees to regular and punctual attendance, and reduce apprehension and disruptions within Grade One classes" says Mohammad Akifuzzaman.

Unicef

Our children go to school without any apprehension of being singled out as a minority". The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is prioritising pre-primary education in South Asian countries, to ensure that children are equipped through play-based learning with the skills they need to complete primary and, if possible, secondary education.

UNICEF

Apprehension disappeared.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "primary apprehension", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to an initial understanding or a fundamental concern. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "primary apprehension" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "main concern" or "initial worry" for better clarity and appropriateness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary apprehension" functions as a noun phrase, where "primary" modifies "apprehension". It refers to the chief or most important concern or initial understanding about something. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "primary apprehension" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe either a main concern or an initial understanding. While Ludwig confirms its usability, its absence of exact occurrences suggests considering context carefully. When using it, be mindful of its formal register, choosing simpler alternatives like "main concern" or "initial worry" in more casual settings. Due to its somewhat limited frequency, clarity and appropriateness in specific situations are key. Consider that synonyms are "initial concern", "basic understanding", or "initial unease".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial concern

Focuses on the initial feeling of worry or unease.

initial unease

Focuses on the first feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

fundamental anxiety

Highlights the basic and essential nature of the anxiety.

basic understanding

Emphasizes the elementary level of comprehension.

preliminary perception

Highlights the initial stage of awareness or insight.

foundational concern

Emphasizes the underlying and crucial aspect of the concern.

early misgiving

Highlights an initial feeling of doubt or apprehension.

original trepidation

Highlights the initial state of fear or anxiety.

first inklings

Refers to the first vague idea or feeling.

pre-existing worry

Emphasizes worry that existed before a specific event.

FAQs

How can "primary apprehension" be used in a sentence?

You can use "primary apprehension" to refer to an initial understanding or a main concern. For example, "Her primary apprehension was the project's potential for failure".

What are some alternatives to "primary apprehension"?

Some alternatives include "initial concern", "basic understanding", or "initial unease", depending on the context.

Is "primary apprehension" a formal phrase?

"Primary apprehension" leans towards a more formal register. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "main worry" or "first impression".

What's the difference between "primary apprehension" and "initial concern"?

"Primary apprehension" can refer to both an understanding and a worry, while "initial concern" specifically refers to a feeling of worry or unease. The best alternative depends on the specific context.