worry

To feel upset or afraid because of a problem or something bad that might happen.

• Don’t worry about me.
• He worried about the exam all night.
• Do you worry that the children will get lost?

How to use it: worry about someone/something (I worry about my father’s health.); worry that… (She worries that she might lose her job.)

Similar words: be anxious, fret

Common phrases: worry about something, worry too much, worry about someone, worry all night

To make someone feel anxious or afraid.

• His silence worries me.
• The delay worried everyone at the airport.
• Does the cost worry you?

Similar words: concern, trouble, distress

Opposites: reassure

Common phrases: worry someone greatly, worry your parents

The feeling of being upset or afraid because something bad might happen.

• Worry kept him awake.
• Her face showed signs of worry.
• Too much worry can make you feel ill.

How to use it: worry about something (Worry about her son kept her awake.)

Similar words: anxiety, concern

Common phrases: constant worry, full of worry, worry about something

A problem or possible event that makes you feel anxious.

• Money is my biggest worry.
• She shared her worries with a friend.
• His only worry was finding somewhere to sleep.

How to use it: worry is that… (My main worry is that we will miss the train.)

Similar words: concern, problem

Common phrases: main worry, financial worry, worry for someone