afraid

Feeling fear or worry because you think something bad may happen.

• I am afraid of spiders.
• She was afraid to walk home alone.
• Are you afraid that you might fail?

How to use it: afraid of someone/something (She is afraid of dogs.); afraid to do something (He was afraid to open the door.); afraid that… (I was afraid that I would miss the train.)

Similar words: scared, frightened, fearful

Opposites: unafraid, fearless

Common phrases: afraid of something, afraid to ask, feel afraid

Used to politely say that something is unfortunate or that you cannot agree or help.

• I am afraid we are closed.
• I am afraid I cannot help you today.
• Will it cost more? I am afraid so.

How to use it: be afraid (that)… (I am afraid that your ticket has expired.); be afraid so/not (Will the shop be closed? I am afraid so.)

Similar words: sorry

Common phrases: I am afraid, afraid that something, afraid not