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Apprehension: meaning, definitions and examples

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apprehension

 

[ ˌæprɪˈhɛnʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

feeling

Apprehension is a feeling of anxiety or fear that something bad may happen. It is the anticipation of a future event with uneasiness or fear. Apprehension can also refer to the act of arresting someone for a crime.

Synonyms

anxiety, fear, uneasiness, worry

Examples of usage

  • I waited in apprehension for the exam results.
  • She felt a sense of apprehension before the big presentation.
  • The police officers moved in with apprehension to make the arrest.
Context #2 | Noun

understanding

Apprehension can also mean the understanding or grasping of something. It is the ability to comprehend or perceive information or ideas.

Synonyms

comprehension, grasping, understanding

Examples of usage

  • His apprehension of the complex scientific concept was impressive.
  • She showed great apprehension of the historical events.

Translations

Translations of the word "apprehension" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apreensão

🇮🇳 गिरफ्तारी

🇩🇪 Festnahme

🇮🇩 penangkapan

🇺🇦 затримання

🇵🇱 aresztowanie

🇯🇵 逮捕 (たいほ)

🇫🇷 arrestation

🇪🇸 detención

🇹🇷 tutuklama

🇰🇷 체포 (체포)

🇸🇦 اعتقال

🇨🇿 zatčení

🇸🇰 zatknutie

🇨🇳 逮捕 (dàibǔ)

🇸🇮 aretacija

🇮🇸 handtaka

🇰🇿 қамау

🇬🇪 დაკავება

🇦🇿 həbs

🇲🇽 detención

Etymology

The word 'apprehension' originated from the Latin word 'apprehendere', which means 'to seize or grasp'. Over time, the meaning of 'apprehension' evolved to include both the sense of anxiety and the understanding of information or ideas. The word has been used in English since the 14th century, reflecting the dual nature of its meaning.

See also: apprehend, apprehended, apprehending, apprehensive, misapprehend.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,035 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.