stage fright

USAGE SUMMARY

"stage fright" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the feeling of nervousness or anxiety that a person may experience before speaking in front of a large audience, particularly while performing a speech, skit, or play. For example: "He struggled to keep his composure before his presentation due to stage fright."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Stage fright?

The New York Times

A.W.: What about stage fright?

The New York Times - Magazine

…if you have stage fright.

The New York Times

"I have severe stage fright".

The New York Times

They have stage fright".

The New York Times - Magazine

"I have stage fright.

The New York Times - Books

I have terrible stage fright.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Cue pillar-clasping stage-fright.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"There should be no stage-fright, everyone is really focused".

BBC

"Against Chelsea last Sunday, Liverpool got stage-fright," he says.

BBC

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Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To overcome "stage fright", practice your material thoroughly and visualize a successful performance.

Common error

Don't assume "stage fright" only applies to actors; it can affect anyone presenting or performing publicly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stage fright" functions as a noun, referring to the anxiety or fear experienced before or during a performance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing this specific type of nervousness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

18%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stage fright" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe the anxiety experienced before or during a performance. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While common, effective strategies exist to manage and overcome "stage fright", such as preparation and positive self-talk. Recognizing that "stage fright" is a normal human experience, as evidenced by its frequent appearance in authoritative sources, can also help to alleviate its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

performance anxiety

Focuses on the anxiety related to any type of performance, not specifically on a stage.

pre-performance jitters

Emphasizes the nervous energy experienced right before a performance.

performance nerves

Highlights the general feeling of nervousness before a performance.

mike fright

Specifically refers to the fear of speaking into a microphone.

fear of public speaking

Broader term encompassing the anxiety associated with addressing an audience.

podium panic

Implies a feeling of terror when standing at a podium.

camera shyness

Describes discomfort or anxiety when being filmed or photographed.

social anxiety

General fear and avoidance of social situations.

test anxiety

Anxiety experienced before and during examinations.

butterflies in stomach

Common idiom for nervousness.

FAQs

How can I overcome "stage fright"?

Strategies include deep breathing exercises, thorough preparation, positive self-talk, and focusing on your message rather than your fear.

What are some common symptoms of "stage fright"?

Symptoms can include sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating.

Is it normal to experience "stage fright"?

Yes, it's a very common experience. Many performers, even experienced ones, deal with it. A touch of "performance anxiety" is normal.

What's the difference between "stage fright" and "social anxiety"?

"Stage fright" is specific to performance situations, while "social anxiety" is a broader fear of social interactions.