Fearfulness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fearfulness
[ˈfɪərf(ʊ)lnəs ]
Definition
feeling
The quality of being fearful; timidity; a state of alarm or dread.
Synonyms
anxiety, apprehension, dread, timidity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fearfulness |
Used to describe a general state of being afraid or worried, often enduring over time.
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| timidity |
Generally used to describe a lack of courage or confidence, often in social situations.
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| dread |
Used when referring to a strong feeling of fear or anxiety about something that is expected to happen, often with a sense of unavoidable doom.
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| apprehension |
Often used when referring to a feeling of worry about a future event or a particular situation.
|
| anxiety |
Commonly used in psychological and medical contexts to refer to a condition of excessive worry and tension, often without a specific trigger.
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Examples of usage
- He trembled in fearfulness as the dark figure approached.
- Her fearfulness prevented her from trying new things.
- The fearfulness in his eyes was evident as he recounted the terrifying experience.
- The fearfulness in the atmosphere was palpable as the storm approached.
- His fearfulness of failure held him back from pursuing his dreams.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Fearfulness is a basic human emotion that can trigger our fight-or-flight response, preparing the body to react to danger.
- High levels of fearfulness are linked to anxiety disorders, where everyday situations can feel overwhelming.
- Some fearfulness is natural and can help protect us from harm, but too much can prevent us from enjoying life.
Cultural Perspectives
- Many cultures have stories or myths that explore the theme of fearfulness, showing how characters overcome their fears.
- In some societies, fearfulness is seen as a sign of weakness, while in others it is acknowledged as a normal aspect of human experience.
- Art often depicts fearfulness, using dark colors and chaotic scenes to evoke the feeling in viewers.
Literature
- Fearfulness is a common theme in literature, often driving characters' actions and decisions throughout a story.
- Many horror stories rely on the emotion of fearfulness to create suspense, making readers feel on edge.
- Classic literature often explores how fearfulness can lead to personal growth, as characters confront their challenges.
Science
- Studies show that fearfulness can be influenced by genetics, with some individuals naturally predisposed to higher anxiety levels.
- The brain areas involved in processing fearfulness include the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, which help assess threats and control reactions.
- Research indicates that exposure to fearfulness in childhood can affect emotional development and coping mechanisms later in life.
History
- Historically, fear was manipulated by leaders to control populations, using fearfulness as a tool for governance.
- During times of war, fearfulness became prevalent in societies, transforming daily life and influencing art and literature of the era.
- Fearfulness has played a role in major historical events, shaping public opinion and social movements throughout time.
Origin of 'fearfulness'
The word 'fearfulness' originated from the Middle English word 'ferefulnes', which was derived from the Old English 'fǣrfulnys'. The suffix '-ness' added to the adjective 'fearful' forms the noun 'fearfulness', indicating the state or quality of being fearful. The concept of fearfulness has been a fundamental aspect of human psychology and behavior, playing a crucial role in survival and adaptation throughout history.
See also: fear, feared, fearful, fearfully, fearless, fearlessly, fearlessness.