reasonable apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reasonable apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal contexts or discussions about feelings of fear or concern regarding a situation or outcome. Example: "The defendant's actions created a reasonable apprehension of harm in the victim."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The reasonable apprehension of physical violence is assault, not free speech.

The Washington Post

This language, in context, clarifies that the regulation requires an objective, reasonable apprehension of litigation.

Harvard University

"It follows that, at the very least, a reasonable apprehension of bias arises".

The Guardian

An assault charge does not require physical contact — intentionally giving someone "reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury" is enough.

The New York Times

Notwithstanding judicial independence, there may also exist a reasonable apprehension of bias on an institutional or structural level.

Harvard University

In this case, Nintendo is likely to show that Atari had no reasonable apprehension of litigation in 1988.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

There were reasons for apprehension.

The New York Times

There is good reason for apprehension.

The New York Times

If the message had been menacing - and if Chambers had intended it to create fear or apprehension among reasonable people or been indifferent to that risk - the court would not have overturned his conviction.

The Guardian

Here the court found that Byers' apprehensions were reasonable because compliance with § 20002(a)(1) confronted him with 'substantial hazards of self-incrimination.' Nevertheless the court upheld the validity of the statute by inserting a judicially created use restriction on the disclosures that it required.

Cornell University

Reasons might include apprehension.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In non-legal writing, be mindful of the audience's perspective. What might seem like a "reasonable apprehension" to you may not be seen as such by others. Provide context and justification.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that any personal fear qualifies as "reasonable apprehension". Remember, it must be objectively reasonable, meaning a reasonable person in the same situation would also experience that apprehension. Personal anxieties alone are insufficient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasonable apprehension" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "reasonable" modifies the noun "apprehension". It describes a specific state of mind or feeling. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

40%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reasonable apprehension" is a noun phrase that describes a state of justifiable fear or concern. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in legal and academic contexts. Its purpose is to establish the legitimacy of someone's feelings or actions based on objective evidence. While subjective fear alone is insufficient, "reasonable apprehension" requires a grounded basis that a reasonable person would share. Alternatives include "legitimate concern" and "justifiable fear", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Remember to distinguish between subjective fear and the objective reasonableness required when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

justifiable fear

Focuses more directly on the emotion of fear, emphasizing its validity.

legitimate concern

Highlights the validity of the concern, rather than the feeling of apprehension.

well-founded fear

Emphasizes that the fear has a solid basis in reality or evidence.

credible threat perception

Highlights the assessment and perception of a threat as believable.

realistic fear

Focuses on the practicality and grounded nature of the fear.

sound apprehension

Indicates that the apprehension is based on good judgment and reasoning.

valid anxiety

Emphasizes the legitimacy and justification of the anxiety experienced.

warranted concern

Highlights that the concern is deserved and appropriate given the circumstances.

understandable fear

Focuses on the ease with which one can comprehend the fear.

justified worry

Highlights the validity of the worry, suggesting it is backed by evidence or reason.

FAQs

What is the definition of "reasonable apprehension" in a legal context?

In law, "reasonable apprehension" typically refers to a justified fear of immediate harm or offensive contact. It's an objective standard, meaning a reasonable person in the same circumstances would also experience that fear.

How does "reasonable apprehension" differ from mere fear or anxiety?

"Reasonable apprehension" requires an objective basis for the fear, supported by facts and circumstances. Mere fear or anxiety can be subjective and may not be considered reasonable without such support. See also "justifiable fear".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "reasonable apprehension"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "legitimate concern", "well-founded fear", or "justifiable fear". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "reasonable apprehension" in writing?

Use "reasonable apprehension" when you want to emphasize that a fear or concern is not just subjective, but is based on objective facts and would be shared by a reasonable person in the same situation. It is often used in legal and formal contexts.