Cool MateFear
UK /["/fɪə(r)/"]/US /["/fɪr/"]/
Definition
the bad feeling that you have when you are in danger or when a particular thing frightens you
In simple words: A strong feeling of being afraid or scared.
Examples
- Her fear of heights kept her from climbing the mountain.
- He faced his fear of public speaking by giving a speech.
- The child had a fear of the dark, so she always slept with a nightlight.
- They felt a deep fear when they heard the strange noises outside.
- Fear can sometimes prevent us from trying new things.
- In the movie, the character overcame her fear and saved the day.
- Fear of failure can be a powerful motivator for success.
- He didn’t let his fear stop him from pursuing his dreams.
- When faced with fear, some people choose to run away rather than confront it.
- Her irrational fear of spiders made her avoid outdoor activities.
Usage notes
Use 'fear' to describe emotions or phobias. It can be formal or informal. Avoid in casual, light-hearted conversations.
Grammar pattern
fear + object
Memory hint
Think of a bear instilling fear — 'Bear' sounds like 'fear'.
Collocations
- big
- deep
- deep-seated
- experience
- feel
- have
- abate
- subside
- grow
- for fear of
- in fear
- in fear of
- fear and loathing
- fear and trembling
- fear and trepidation
Synonyms
- anxiety
- terror
- fright
- dread
- panic
Antonyms
- courage
- confidence
- bravery
Common mistakes
- 'Fear' is often confused with 'scared', but 'fear' is a noun and 'scared' is an adjective.
- 'Fear' is sometimes incorrectly used with 'of' when it should be 'fear for' someone's safety.