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.
Click here to go to the Word of the Day page. October 31, 2012 | 
Bob is afraid of bats. 