Apprehensive: meaning, definitions and examples

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apprehensive

[ˌæprɪˈhɛnsɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling of anxiety or fear

Feeling or showing fear or anxiety about the future; uneasy or worried about what may happen. Apprehensive is often used to describe a feeling of nervousness or concern about something that is about to happen.

Synonyms

anxious, nervous, worried.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
apprehensive	Used when someone feels uneasy about something in the future, typically because they are unsure about the outcome. She was apprehensive about starting her new job Despite his excitement, he felt apprehensive about the exam results
anxious	Describes a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It often has a more intense and sometimes clinical connotation. She felt anxious before her dentist appointment He has been anxious about his health for weeks
worried	Used when someone is troubled or concerned about something. It can apply to both immediate and long-term concerns. He's worried about his son's grades in school She was worried that they might miss the flight
nervous	Refers to a temporary feeling of unease or jitters, often related to immediate situations like public speaking or performance. She was nervous before her big presentation He felt nervous waiting for his turn to speak

Examples of usage

I'm apprehensive about the upcoming exam.
She was apprehensive about meeting his parents for the first time.
He felt apprehensive about the job interview.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

understanding or quick to learn

Perceptive or quick to understand. Apprehensive in this context refers to someone who is able to grasp or comprehend things easily.

Synonyms

astute, perceptive, quick-witted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
apprehensive	Similar to the previous entry, it is used to describe someone who is worried or uneasy about something. Despite the calm weather, she remained apprehensive about the potential storm Students are often apprehensive before final exams
perceptive	This term fits when referring to someone who is very good at noticing things quickly and understanding them accurately. His perceptive nature allows him to read people’s emotions easily The detective was very perceptive, noticing even the smallest clues
quick-witted	Best used to describe someone who is able to think quickly and make smart remarks or decisions promptly. Her quick-witted retort left everyone in the room speechless The comedian’s quick-witted humor kept the audience laughing all night
astute	Used to describe someone who is very clever and has good judgment, typically when it comes to understanding complicated situations or making decisions. Her astute observations during the meeting helped steer the project in the right direction Astute investors can predict market trends accurately

Examples of usage

She is very apprehensive and picks up new concepts quickly.
The student was apprehensive and excelled in the subject.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'apprehendere', meaning 'to seize or grasp'.
It was first used in English around the 1600s, reflecting a state of worry or fear.
The prefix 'appre-' relates to approaching or seizing, while '-hensive' relates to sensing or feeling.

Psychology

Research shows that individuals who are apprehensive often experience increased stress levels because they anticipate negative outcomes.
Apprehensiveness can manifest physically, including symptoms like sweating or rapid heartbeat before tense situations.
People with high anxiety may find themselves more apprehensive in unfamiliar situations, impacting their decision-making.

Literature

In many novels, apprehensive characters highlight their internal struggles as they face uncertain futures.
Authors use apprehensive feelings to create tension, making readers empathize with characters’ worries.
The theme of apprehensiveness can illustrate the human experience of facing fear, often leading to personal growth or change.

Pop Culture

Movies often portray apprehensive characters who either overcome their fears or succumb to their anxieties, providing valuable lessons.
In popular music, lyrics frequently capture the sentiment of feeling apprehensive before significant life changes, resonating with many listeners.
Comedic shows often exaggerate apprehensiveness for humor, showcasing the lighter side of being worried.

Cultural Interpretations

Different cultures may have varying perceptions of apprehensiveness; some view it as instinctual caution, while others see it as a weakness.
In several Eastern philosophies, apprehensiveness is considered a necessary emotion that can lead to self-reflection and mindfulness.
Modern self-help movements suggest transforming apprehension into motivation, emphasizing personal empowerment.

Translations

Translations of the word "apprehensive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apreensivo

🇮🇳 चिंतित

🇩🇪 besorgt

🇮🇩 cemas

🇺🇦 тривожний

🇵🇱 niespokojny

🇯🇵 心配している

🇫🇷 appréhensif

🇪🇸 aprensivo

🇹🇷 endişeli

🇰🇷 걱정하는

🇸🇦 قلق

🇨🇿 znepokojený

🇸🇰 znepokojený

🇨🇳 担心的

🇸🇮 zaskrbljen

🇮🇸 kvíðinn

🇰🇿 алаңдаушылық

🇬🇪 აღელვებული

🇦🇿 narahat

🇲🇽 aprensivo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,217, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14214 spurred
14215 hike
14216 codified
14217 apprehensive
14218 bounding
14219 tasting
14220 anus
...