Worry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
worry
[หwสri ]
Definitions
feeling
Feel or cause to feel anxious or troubled about actual or potential problems.
Synonyms
agonize, fret, obsess, stress.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| worry |
Commonly used in everyday situations where someone feels anxious or uneasy about something that might happen.
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| fret |
Often used in situations where someone is constantly anxious or distressed about minor issues. It's less intense than worry or agonize.
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| stress |
Used to describe a state of mental or emotional strain resulting from demanding circumstances. Often used in work or academic contexts.
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| agonize |
Used when someone suffers intense mental pain over a decision or situation, often involving a prolonged period of thinking or debate.
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| obsess |
Describes a situation where someone cannot stop thinking about something, often leading to unhealthy behavior. It usually has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He worried about the future of his business.
- She constantly worries about her children.
emotion
A state of anxiety and uncertainty over actual or potential problems.
Synonyms
anxiety, concern, stress, unease.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| worry |
When you feel uneasy about something that might happen or has happened.
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| anxiety |
When you have a persistent feeling of dread or fear, often without a clear cause.
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| concern |
When you care about someone or something and feel that something might be wrong or could go wrong.
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| stress |
When you feel pressure or tension due to demanding circumstances or tasks.
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| unease |
When you feel uncomfortable or anxious about a situation or somebody.
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Examples of usage
- She was consumed by worry over her upcoming exam.
- The constant worry about his health was affecting his sleep.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Worrying is a common response to stress and can help people prepare for potential problems, but too much can lead to anxiety disorders.
- Studies show that about 85% of what people worry about never actually happens, highlighting how often worry is based on fears rather than reality.
History
- The word 'worry' has Old English roots, stemming from 'wyrgan,' meaning 'to strangle,' reflecting how overwhelming worry can feel.
- Throughout history, various cultures have regarded worry as a natural yet troubling part of the human experience, often tying it to moral and ethical teachings.
Literature
- Worry is a prevalent theme in literature, often depicted as an inner battle faced by protagonists in quest narratives, illustrating human vulnerability.
- Famous writers, like Shakespeare, have included the concept of worry in their works, exploring its effects on mental states and relationships.
Health
- Excessive worry can impact physical health, leading to issues such as headaches, stomach problems, and even heart disease.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques have been shown to help reduce levels of worry and promote better mental health outcomes.
Coping Strategies
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective approach that helps people reframe their worries by challenging negative thought patterns.
- Journaling can serve as a beneficial tool to track worries, allowing individuals to express feelings and put them into perspective.
Origin of 'worry'
The word 'worry' originated from the Old English word 'wyrgan' which meant to strangle or to kill by compressing the throat. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent the feeling of anxiety or unease. The concept of worry has been present in human experience for centuries, with various cultures and societies developing different ways to cope with and understand this complex emotion.
See also: unworried, worried, worriedly, worrier, worrying, worryingly.