Afraid

Synonyms for "afraid" (139 found)

Ranked by relevance and common usage.

How these synonyms differ

• fearful - 'Fearful' is slightly more formal and often describes a disposition, a fearful child, a fearful glance. It lingers where 'afraid' can be momentary.
• frightened - 'Frightened' implies a specific cause, something has actively startled or alarmed you. It's reactive where 'afraid' can be a standing condition.
• scared - 'Scared' is more colloquial and visceral, it's the immediate, gut-level reaction, while 'afraid' can be more considered or even polite.
• terrified - 'Terrified' is fear at its most extreme. The body takes over, freezing, shaking, fleeing. Save it for genuine moments of overwhelm.
• timid - 'Timid' is a personality trait rather than a reaction to danger. A timid person avoids risk habitually, not because something specific threatens them.