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fear
This word describes a primal, visceral reaction to perceived danger. It is a broad term that covers everything from a momentary startle to a lifelong phobia. While it often carries a negative connotation of vulnerability, it is also viewed as a survival mechanism that alerts the body to risk.
In social or professional settings, the word can shift toward anxiety or apprehension. For instance, fearing a boss's reaction is less about physical danger and more about social consequence or failure. It differs from dread, which is a heavy, lingering anticipation of something inevitable and unpleasant.
Countable when referring to specific phobias or types of anxiety (e.g., a fear of spiders). Uncountable when referring to the general emotional state of being afraid.
Meanings
An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.
He felt a sudden surge of fear as the lights went out.
Examples
A sudden surge of fear gripped him as the lights went out.
Many people fear spiders more than they should.
She feared that the project would fail.
Phrasal Verbs
fear for
to be worried that someone or something is in danger
She began to fear for her children's safety during the storm.