afraid

6 definitions • 13 examples

feeling fear, or feeling worry about the possible results of a particular situation:

afraid for She was afraid for her children (= feared that they might be hurt).

afraid of I've always been afraid of flying/heights/spiders.

He was/felt suddenly afraid.

[ + to infinitive ] Don't be afraid to say what you think.

[ + (that) ] She was afraid (that) he might be upset if she told him.

used to politely introduce bad news or disagreement:

This is your room - it's rather small, I'm afraid.

used to politely say "no":

"Was she impressed with our work?" "I'm afraid not."

used to say "yes" or agree with something though you are sad or upset over that thing :

"Does this mean I've got to leave?" "I'm afraid so."

feeling fear, or feeling anxiety about the possible results of a particular situation:

She was afraid, but never thought of quitting.

I’ve always been afraid of heights.

Dad’s afraid I’ll end up like my cousin.

He’s not afraid of losing.

feeling regret, esp. because something is not the way you think it should be:

A lot of those stores will cheat you, I’m afraid.