B2noun1K

Anxiety

UK /["/æŋˈzaɪəti/"]/US /["/æŋˈzaɪəti/"]/

Definition

the state of feeling nervous or worried that something bad is going to happen

In simple words: A feeling of worry or fear.

Examples

  • Many people experience anxiety during stressful situations, such as taking exams.
  • She felt a sense of anxiety as she approached the crowded room.
  • Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms like trembling or sweating.
  • His anxiety about the upcoming presentation was evident in his fidgeting.
  • Therapy can help individuals manage their anxiety and develop coping strategies.
  • The anxiety disorder affected her daily life, making simple tasks seem daunting.
  • He often turned to meditation as a way to relieve his anxiety.
  • Feeling anxiety is a normal human response, but it can become overwhelming for some.

Usage notes

Use 'anxiety' in situations discussing mental health or stress. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts but may be too intense for light conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think 'a-nix-iety' — picture nixing all worries away.

Collocations

  • acute
  • considerable
  • deep
  • level
  • arouse
  • bring
  • cause
  • grow
  • arise
  • arise from something
  • attack
  • disorder
  • dream
  • anxiety about
  • anxiety at
  • anxiety for
  • anxiety and depression
  • fear and anxiety
  • acute
  • considerable
  • deep
  • level
  • arouse
  • bring
  • cause
  • grow
  • arise
  • arise from something
  • attack
  • disorder
  • dream
  • anxiety about
  • anxiety at
  • anxiety for
  • anxiety and depression
  • fear and anxiety

Synonyms

  • nervousness
  • unease
  • apprehension
  • fear
  • worry

Antonyms

  • calm
  • peace
  • serenity

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'anxiety' with 'anxious' - remember 'anxiety' is the noun.
  • Using 'anxiety' to describe simple stress, when it's more about a deeper, chronic feeling.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'anxity' instead of 'an-xi-ety'.