afraid

The word "afraid" is an adjective that is similar to the word "scared." Use "afraid" when something is frightening or scary:

• Everyone in our neighborhood is afraid of the man who lives down the street. He’s creepy.
• Josh is afraid to be at home alone because strange noises come from the attic at night.
• Gloria didn’t want to go into the cave because she was too afraid.

The word "afraid" is also used when a person has a fear:

• Bob is afraid of bats.
• Many people are afraid of being in small, confined places.
• I’m afraid of heights.
• He’s afraid to go into the water.

You’ll also hear "afraid" used in place of the word "sorry" or when there is a concern:

• I’m afraid I can’t help you. (I’m sorry I can’t help you.)
• The owner of the restaurant is afraid she’ll have to shut it down for a lack of customers.
• We’re afraid we won’t be able to afford another big expense, so we aren’t going to buy a new car this year.

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October 31, 2012