B1verb 2K

Dread

UK //drɛd// US //drɛd// Pronunciation

Definition

To anticipate with great apprehension or fear.

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In simple words: To feel very afraid or worried about something

Examples

• I dread the thought of public speaking.
• She dreads her upcoming exam because she hasn't studied enough.
• Every time I hear thunder, I dread the storm that follows.
• He dreads going to the dentist due to previous painful experiences.
• Many students dread the return of homework after summer vacation.

Usage notes

Use 'dread' when expressing fear or anxiety about a future event. It's often more serious than just being scared.

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Grammar pattern

dread + object

Memory hint

Think of 'dread' as feeling heavy like a cloud before a storm.

Collocations

• dread the future
• dread the consequences
• dread telling someone

Synonyms

• fear
• apprehend
• worry
• panic
• anxious

Antonyms

• delight
• rejoice
• welcome

Common mistakes

• Using 'dread' with positive outcomes, e.g. 'I dread winning'.
• Confusing 'dread' with 'fear' when expressing less intense feelings.
• Misusing the tense, e.g. saying 'I dreaded' for future worries.