A2adjective1K

Worried

UK /["/ˈwʌrid/"]/US /["/ˈwɜːrid/"]/

Definition

thinking about unpleasant things that have happened or that might happen and therefore feeling unhappy and afraid

In simple words: Feeling anxious or concerned about something.

Examples

  • She is worried about her exam results.
  • I was worried when I didn't hear from him.
  • He looked worried after receiving the news.
  • The parents were worried about their child's health.
  • Don't be worried; everything will be fine.

Usage notes

Use 'worried' in situations of concern or anxiety. It's suitable for both casual and more serious contexts. Avoid using it in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

be worried + about + object

Memory hint

Think of being 'worried' like having a 'furry head' full of anxious thoughts.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • about
  • worried sick

Synonyms

  • anxious
  • concerned
  • nervous
  • uneasy
  • troubled

Antonyms

  • calm
  • untroubled
  • carefree

Common mistakes

  • 'Worried of' instead of 'worried about'
  • Confusing 'worried' with 'worriedly' (the adverb form)
  • 'Worry' as a noun instead of using the adjective 'worried'