Definitions

apprehensive

[ap-ri-hen-siv] / ˌæp rɪˈhɛn sɪv /

ADJECTIVE

anxious, fearful

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid concerned doubtful jittery jumpy suspicious uncertain uneasy uptight

WEAK

alarmed biting nails butterflies disquieted feel in bones foreboding frozen get vibes have a hunch have cold feet have funny feeling have stage fright hung up in a cold sweat in a dither in a sweat lily-livered mistrustful running scared shaky stiff troubled weak worried worried sick

Antonyms

STRONGEST

calm certain clear collected composed confident cool definite easygoing happy laid-back sure unquestionable

WEAK

at ease quiet unafraid undoubting unfearful unsuspicious unworried

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Apprehensive but hopeful that perhaps this movie might help the world better understand their story of what she characterizes as true love, Gracie has invited Elizabeth to visit them at their home.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 13, 2023

Apprehensive families were placated by videos of students solving tough math problems and being accepted to college.

From New York Times • Nov. 30, 2018

Apprehensive but sensing the need for “something big,” Spiller sent an email expressing his admiration to Rhodes, who responded right away.

From New York Times • Jan. 15, 2016

Apprehensive about using his metaphor, Tony Bennett paused, looked at a Virginia media relations employee and proceeded.

From Washington Times • Feb. 9, 2015

Apprehensive at the sight of these men, so stern in their demeanor, I hesitated by the door, unwilling to go further.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing apprehensive

100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know

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The Giver

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Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!