raise fear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'raise fear' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used when a person or event causes someone to feel fear or anxiety. For example, "The news of a possible terrorist attack in the city raised fear among the citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

A14 Wildlife Disease in Midwest Discoveries of sick wildlife in Colorado, Nebraska and Wisconsin raise fear chronic wasting disease may be more widespread than thought.

The New York Times

This should raise fear in the hearts of everyone who someday may be too old to hold a valid driver's license and who lacks the mobility to obtain an appropriate substitute.

The New York Times

The claim that sharing information would raise fear levels was shown to be a myth, while the public's involvement enabled many improvements to be made to the original proposal.

The Guardian - Opinion

With U.S. presidential elections heating up, some politicians are employing scare tactics to raise fear among the voters.

Huffington Post

This phrase can raise fear in the hearts of those who have no experience with it, and comfort in the hearts of those who have benefited from its care.

Huffington Post

Some types are less controversial and can easily be approved by both groups of providers (i.e. health education, training sessions, etc)., whereas other types are likely to raise fear and suspicion.

Human Resources for Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

However, there are other factors combining to raise fears.

The Guardian

This is likely to blunt Tory attempts to raise fears about devolution.

The Economist

Those numbers raise fears about a new and uncontrollable pandemic.

Science Magazine

Hasty trials raise fears of possible miscarriages of justice.

BBC

Their action so deep inside the Sunni heartlands would raise fears of sectarian repercussions.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "raise fear" when you want to emphasize that a specific action, event, or piece of information is directly causing feelings of fear or anxiety. It's more direct than simply stating that something is scary.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions like "Fear was raised" when the active voice ("This raised fear") is more concise and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "raise fear" functions as a verb phrase where "raise" acts as a transitive verb causing the noun "fear". As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a correct and usable phrase. It directly expresses the act of instilling or causing fear.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "raise fear" is a grammatically correct and semantically valid expression used to describe the act of causing fear or anxiety. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate in various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as scientific writing. The phrase functions as a verb phrase with a neutral to formal register, suggesting a need for objective reporting even when dealing with sensitive content. While other phrases like "instill fear" or "provoke anxiety" exist, "raise fear" offers a direct and concise way to express the causation of fear. Therefore, it's a useful phrase to incorporate into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instill fear

Focuses on deliberately implanting fear in someone.

breed panic

Emphasizes widespread and uncontrollable fear.

provoke anxiety

Highlights the causation of anxiety rather than just fear.

spark alarm

Indicates a sudden and intense onset of fear.

generate apprehension

Emphasizes a sense of unease or worry.

foster anxiety

Highlights the gradual development of anxious feelings.

create trepidation

Suggests a more formal and intense level of fear.

stir unease

Conveys a feeling of discomfort or restlessness.

arouse concern

Implies a milder form of worry or fear.

prompt worries

Highlights the causation of worries, implying a lesser intensity of emotion compared to fear.

FAQs

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

You can use "raise fear" to indicate that something is causing fear or anxiety. For instance, "The spread of misinformation online can "raise fear" among the public".

What are some alternatives to "raise fear"?

Alternatives include "instill fear", "provoke anxiety", or "generate apprehension", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "raise fear" and "arouse suspicion"?

"Raise fear" refers to causing feelings of fear or anxiety, while "arouse suspicion" suggests causing someone to feel doubtful or distrustful. They are related but distinct emotions.

When is it appropriate to use "raise fear" in writing?

Use "raise fear" when you want to clearly state that a specific action, situation, or piece of information is the direct cause of feelings of fear or anxiety in someone. It is suitable for news reports, academic writing, and other contexts where clear and direct language is important.