Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Fearfully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😨
Add to dictionary

fearfully

[ˈfɪərfʊli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

used to describe an action

In a fearful manner; showing fear or anxiety.

Synonyms

anxiously, apprehensively, nervously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
fearfully

See above.
anxiously

Suitable for situations involving a mix of worry and eagerness, often related to waiting for something important.

  • The students waited anxiously for their exam results.
  • She glanced anxiously at her watch, wondering if he would arrive on time.
nervously

Use in situations where someone is uneasy or jittery, often with visible signs of nervousness like fidgeting or stammering.

  • He tapped his foot nervously while waiting for his job interview.
  • She laughed nervously when she realized she had forgotten her lines.
apprehensively

Best used when someone is approaching a situation with a mild to moderate level of fear or unease, often related to uncertainty.

  • He walked apprehensively into the abandoned building.
  • She eyed the roller coaster apprehensively before deciding to go on the ride.

Examples of usage

  • She looked fearfully at the dark shadows.
  • He hesitated fearfully before opening the door.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'fearfully'

The adverb 'fearfully' is derived from the adjective 'fearful', which dates back to the 12th century. Both words have roots in Old English and have evolved over time to convey the sense of being full of fear or anxiety. 'Fearfully' is commonly used in literature and everyday language to emphasize the level of fear or anxiety in a particular situation.

See also: fear, feared, fearful, fearfulness, fearless, fearlessly, fearlessness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,443, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.