A2verb1K

Worry

UK /["/ˈwʌri/","/ˈwʌriz/","/ˈwʌrid/","/ˈwʌriɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈwɜːri/","/ˈwɜːriz/","/ˈwɜːrid/","/ˈwɜːriɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to keep thinking about unpleasant things that might happen or about problems that you have

In simple words: To feel uneasy or anxious about something.

Examples

  • I tend to worry about my exams every time.
  • Don't worry, everything will be fine!
  • She started to worry when she didn't hear from him.
  • He doesn't worry much about small problems in life.
  • Please don't worry about what others think of you.

Usage notes

Use 'worry' for general concerns. It's neutral but can sound weak in more serious contexts. Avoid in professional settings unless discussing stress.

Grammar pattern

worry + about + object

Memory hint

Think of 'worry' like a 'war' in your mind, fighting against peace.

Collocations

  • a lot
  • particularly
  • really
  • not let something
  • not need to
  • begin to
  • about
  • for
  • with
  • can’t help worrying
  • enough to worry about
  • nothing to worry about
  • a lot
  • particularly
  • really
  • not let something
  • not need to
  • begin to
  • about
  • for
  • with
  • can’t help worrying
  • enough to worry about
  • nothing to worry about
  • a lot
  • particularly
  • really
  • not let something
  • not need to
  • begin to
  • about
  • for
  • with
  • can’t help worrying
  • enough to worry about
  • nothing to worry about

Synonyms

  • disturb

Antonyms

  • calm
  • relax
  • dismiss

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'worry' vs 'care' — 'worry' implies anxiety.
  • Incorrectly use 'worrying' as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Using 'worry' without an object, e.g., 'I worry' should be followed by 'about something.'