worried in 30 Seconds
- Feeling unhappy and anxious about potential problems.
- Describes a state of concern and apprehension.
- Commonly used to express unease regarding future events.
- A fundamental emotion related to uncertainty and risk.
The word 'worried' is an adjective that describes a state of feeling uneasy, anxious, or troubled about something that might happen or about a problem that exists. When someone is worried, their mind is occupied with thoughts of potential difficulties or negative outcomes. It's a common human emotion that arises when we perceive a threat, uncertainty, or a situation that causes distress. People use 'worried' to express their concern, their unease, and their state of mental disquiet. It can range from mild apprehension to significant distress, depending on the cause and the individual's disposition. For instance, a student might feel worried about an upcoming exam, a parent might be worried about their child's health, or a person might be worried about their financial situation. The feeling of being worried often involves a sense of helplessness or a lack of control over the situation, prompting a desire for reassurance or a solution. It's a word deeply connected to our emotional well-being and our perception of the world around us. When you hear someone say they are worried, it's an invitation to understand their internal state and perhaps offer support or comfort. This feeling can manifest physically as well, with symptoms like a racing heart, difficulty sleeping, or a knot in the stomach. Understanding 'worried' is fundamental to grasping how people communicate their emotional experiences and their reactions to life's challenges. It's a versatile word that can be applied to a wide array of situations, from personal anxieties to broader societal concerns.
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- When someone is worried, they are experiencing a feeling of anxiety or concern about something that has happened, is happening, or might happen in the future. It reflects a state of unease and apprehension.
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- The word 'worried' is typically used as an adjective to describe a person's emotional state. It is not usually used to describe an object or a situation directly, but rather the feeling a person has about them.
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- It is a very common and accessible word, frequently used in everyday conversations to express personal feelings of concern or apprehension about a particular matter.
She looked very worried when her son didn't come home on time.
I am worried about the upcoming job interview; I hope I do well.
The news about the economy made many people feel worried about their future.
The word 'worried' is a versatile adjective used to describe a person's state of mind when they are experiencing anxiety, concern, or unease about something. It is typically placed after a linking verb like 'to be' or 'to feel'. For example, 'I am worried about the test,' or 'She felt worried when she heard the news.' It can also be used to modify a noun, often in constructions like 'a worried look' or 'a worried parent'. The intensity of the feeling can be emphasized with adverbs such as 'very', 'deeply', or 'extremely'. For instance, 'He was very worried about his sick grandmother.' The word can also be used in more complex sentence structures. We often use it when discussing future events, potential problems, or situations that are outside of our immediate control. For example, 'They are worried that the project might fail.' In spoken English, it's common to hear phrases like 'I'm worried sick' to express extreme worry. When learning to use 'worried', focus on associating it with situations that evoke concern or apprehension. Think about your own experiences where you might have felt this way – perhaps before a big event, when someone you care about is unwell, or when facing a difficult decision. Practicing with different sentence structures will help you integrate it naturally into your vocabulary. Consider the subject of the worry and the object of your concern. For example, 'The teacher is worried about the student's progress,' or 'She is worried that he won't arrive on time.' The prepositions 'about' and 'that' are commonly used with 'worried' to specify the focus of the concern. Understanding these grammatical nuances will enhance your ability to express yourself accurately and effectively. Remember, 'worried' is a core emotion, and mastering its usage allows for richer and more nuanced communication about personal feelings and external circumstances.
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- Placement: 'Worried' is typically used after linking verbs like 'be' (am, is, are, was, were) or 'feel'.
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- Prepositional Usage: It is often followed by the preposition 'about' to indicate the subject of the concern.
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- Clause Usage: It can also be followed by 'that' and a clause to express worry about a specific outcome or situation.
The parents were worried about their child's safety.
I feel worried that I might have forgotten something important.
He gave a worried glance at the darkening sky.
The word 'worried' is ubiquitous in everyday English communication, appearing in a vast array of contexts. You'll frequently hear it in casual conversations between friends and family. For instance, someone might say, 'I'm a bit worried about the weather tomorrow,' or 'My mom is always worried when I travel alone.' In a professional setting, while perhaps less frequently expressed with such direct emotional language, concerns can still be articulated. A manager might say, 'I'm worried that we might miss our deadline,' or a team member might express, 'I'm worried about the stability of this new system.' News reports and discussions about current events are rife with the word. You'll hear anchors or analysts talking about how people are 'worried about the economy,' 'worried about the impact of climate change,' or 'worried about political instability.' In educational environments, teachers might express concern for their students: 'Are you worried about the upcoming exam?' or 'I'm worried that some students are falling behind.' Healthcare professionals also use it, though often in more clinical terms, but the underlying sentiment is the same. A doctor might say to a patient, 'We are worried about these test results and need to investigate further.' In literature and media, 'worried' is a staple for portraying characters' internal struggles and anxieties. Novels, films, and plays often depict characters in states of worry, using the word to convey their emotional turmoil. Even in informal online interactions, like social media posts or messages, people express their worries: 'So worried about my cat, she hasn't eaten all day!' The word is fundamental to expressing vulnerability and seeking connection. It's a word that humanizes interactions, making people feel understood and less alone in their concerns. Its prevalence underscores its importance in conveying a fundamental human emotion that affects decision-making and interpersonal relationships across all walks of life.
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- Everyday Conversations: Friends discussing plans, family members checking in, neighbors sharing concerns.
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- News and Media: Reports on economic situations, social issues, or international events.
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- Parent-Child Interactions: Concerns about school, health, or well-being.
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- Workplace Discussions: Expressing concerns about projects, deadlines, or team performance.
On the news: 'Citizens are increasingly worried about rising inflation.'
A parent to a child: 'I was so worried when you didn't answer your phone.'
Two friends chatting: 'Are you worried about the presentation tomorrow?'
One common mistake learners make is confusing 'worried' with words that describe the cause of the worry, or using it in a way that implies the subject itself is anxious. For instance, saying 'The situation is worried' is incorrect. The situation is the *cause* of worry, but it doesn't feel worried itself. The correct usage is to say 'The situation is worrying' (as in, it causes worry) or 'I am worried about the situation.' Another frequent error involves the misuse of prepositions. While 'worried about' is standard, learners might incorrectly use other prepositions or omit them entirely. For example, 'I am worried for my friend' is understandable but 'worried about' is more idiomatic and common. Similarly, using 'worried of' is incorrect. Another pitfall is confusing the adjective 'worried' with the verb 'to worry'. The verb 'to worry' describes the act of feeling anxious or causing anxiety. For example, 'Don't worry about it' (verb). The adjective 'worried' describes the state of being anxious. 'I am worried' (adjective). Sometimes, learners might use 'worried' when they mean 'bored' or 'tired', especially if there's a slight phonetic similarity in their native language. It's crucial to differentiate these meanings. For example, 'I am worried about this long lecture' is about anxiety, while 'I am bored by this long lecture' is about a lack of interest. Finally, there's a tendency to overuse 'very worried' without exploring other, more nuanced expressions of anxiety. While 'very worried' is grammatically correct, learners can expand their vocabulary by learning synonyms or more descriptive phrases to convey different degrees of concern. For example, instead of always saying 'very worried,' one could say 'deeply concerned,' 'anxious,' 'apprehensive,' or 'distressed,' depending on the context and intensity. Careful attention to sentence structure, prepositional usage, and the distinction between the verb and adjective forms will significantly improve accuracy when using 'worried'.
- Mistake
- Using 'worried' to describe a situation or object directly, as if it can feel emotions.
- Mistake
- Incorrect preposition usage, such as 'worried for' or 'worried of' instead of 'worried about'.
- Mistake
- Confusing the adjective 'worried' with the verb 'to worry'.
- Mistake
- Using 'worried' when another adjective like 'bored' or 'tired' is more appropriate.
Incorrect: 'The exam was worried.' Correct: 'The exam was worrying.' or 'I was worried about the exam.'
Incorrect: 'I am worried of the dark.' Correct: 'I am worried about the dark.'
Incorrect: 'She worried about the result.' (when meaning she was anxious) Correct: 'She was worried about the result.'
The word 'worried' is a fundamental term for expressing anxiety, but there are many other words and phrases that convey similar or related meanings, each with subtle differences in intensity and nuance. 'Anxious' is a very close synonym, often used interchangeably with 'worried.' However, 'anxious' can sometimes imply a more persistent or generalized feeling of unease, often without a specific identifiable cause, whereas 'worried' is usually tied to a particular concern. 'Concerned' is a milder term, suggesting a degree of thoughtfulness and care about a situation, rather than strong apprehension. You might be 'concerned' about a friend's well-being, which is less intense than being 'worried.' 'Apprehensive' suggests a feeling of unease about something that is about to happen, often with a sense of dread or foreboding. It's a forward-looking worry. For instance, one might feel 'apprehensive' about starting a new job. 'Distressed' indicates a higher level of suffering or emotional pain, often caused by a significant problem or shock. It's a stronger emotion than simply being 'worried.' 'Uneasy' describes a general feeling of discomfort or restlessness, often without a clear reason, similar to mild anxiety. 'Fretful' suggests being restless and full of worry, often in a way that is noticeable and perhaps annoying to others. 'Agitated' implies a state of being disturbed or excited, often due to worry or nervousness. It suggests a lack of calm. In terms of phrases, 'to have butterflies in one's stomach' is an idiom that describes the physical sensation of nervousness or anxiety, often before an event. 'To be on edge' means to be nervous and irritable because of worry. 'To have a knot in one's stomach' is another idiom for feeling anxious or worried. When choosing an alternative, consider the intensity of the emotion, the specific cause (if any), and the overall tone you wish to convey. 'Worried' remains a strong, versatile choice for general concern, but exploring these alternatives can enrich your expression of emotional states.
- Synonym Comparison
- Anxious: Similar, but can imply a more generalized or persistent unease.
- Synonym Comparison
- Concerned: Milder, suggesting thoughtfulness and care rather than strong apprehension.
- Synonym Comparison
- Apprehensive: Suggests unease about a future event, often with a sense of dread.
- Synonym Comparison
- Distressed: A stronger emotion, indicating significant suffering or pain.
Instead of 'I am very worried,' you could say 'I am quite anxious about the results.'
Instead of 'He was worried about the meeting,' you could say 'He was apprehensive about the meeting.'
Instead of 'She felt worried,' you could say 'She felt uneasy about the situation.'
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
Interestingly, the original meaning of 'worry' was quite physical – related to choking or strangling. This suggests that the feeling of intense worry was once associated with a sense of being physically suffocated or tormented. The transition to a mental state of anxiety happened gradually through the Middle English period.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'o' sound incorrectly (e.g., like 'o' in 'hot').
- Incorrect stress placement, such as stressing the second syllable.
- Mispronouncing the final 'ed' sound.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'worried' is very common and its meaning is straightforward. It appears frequently in texts of all levels, making it easy to encounter and understand for early learners.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using 'be' + adjective + 'about' + noun/gerund
She is happy about the news. He is sad about the delay. They are worried about the cost.
Using 'be' + adjective + 'that' + clause
I am sure that he will come. She is confident that she will succeed. He is worried that he might miss the train.
Past tense of 'be' with adjectives
Yesterday, I was tired. Last week, she was excited. They were worried about the results.
Adverbs modifying adjectives
He is very happy. She is extremely tired. They are deeply worried about the situation.
Using adjectives to describe nouns
A happy child. An excited crowd. A worried parent.
Examples by Level
I am worried about the test.
Estou preocupado com a prova.
Use 'am' with 'I' and 'worried about' to express concern regarding a specific event.
She is worried about her dog.
Ela está preocupada com o seu cachorro.
'Is' is used for the third-person singular (she). 'Worried about' specifies the object of concern.
Are you worried about the rain?
Você está preocupado com a chuva?
Forming a question with 'Are you worried about...' to inquire about someone's concern.
He looks worried.
Ele parece preocupado.
'Looks' followed by 'worried' describes someone's appearance indicating worry.
We are worried about the news.
Estamos preocupados com as notícias.
'Are' is used for the plural 'we'. 'Worried about' indicates the subject of concern.
My mother is worried.
Minha mãe está preocupada.
Simple statement using 'is' and 'worried' to describe a person's state.
Don't be worried.
Não se preocupe.
Imperative form to tell someone not to feel worried.
I was worried yesterday.
Eu estava preocupado ontem.
Past tense 'was' used to describe a past state of worry.
I'm worried that I might be late for the meeting.
Estou preocupado que eu possa me atrasar para a reunião.
Using 'worried that' followed by a clause to express concern about a future possibility.
The teacher is worried about the student's progress.
O professor está preocupado com o progresso do aluno.
'Worried about' followed by a noun phrase indicating the subject of concern.
She seemed worried when she heard the loud noise.
Ela parecia preocupada quando ouviu o barulho alto.
'Seemed worried' describes the appearance of someone experiencing worry.
He is worried sick about his exam results.
Ele está muito preocupado com os resultados do seu exame.
'Worried sick' is an idiom to express extreme worry.
Are you worried about the cost of the repairs?
Você está preocupado com o custo dos reparos?
Question using 'worried about' to inquire about financial concerns.
They were worried that the storm would damage their house.
Eles estavam preocupados que a tempestade danificasse suas casas.
Past tense 'were worried that' expressing concern about a potential negative outcome.
I'm a little worried about the changes at work.
Estou um pouco preocupado com as mudanças no trabalho.
'A little worried' indicates a mild level of concern.
The parents are worried about their child's fever.
Os pais estão preocupados com a febre do filho.
Plural subject 'parents are worried about' regarding a health issue.
I can't stop thinking about it; I'm really worried.
Não consigo parar de pensar nisso; estou realmente preocupado.
'Really worried' emphasizes the intensity of the feeling, often linked to persistent thoughts.
She was worried sick about her son who was traveling alone.
Ela estava muito preocupada com seu filho que viajava sozinho.
'Worried sick' is used to convey a high level of emotional distress due to someone else's situation.
The community is worried about the potential impact of the new factory.
A comunidade está preocupada com o impacto potencial da nova fábrica.
'Worried about' followed by a noun phrase indicating a collective concern about future consequences.
He expressed that he was worried about the financial implications of the decision.
Ele expressou que estava preocupado com as implicações financeiras da decisão.
Using 'worried about' to discuss abstract concerns like financial implications in a more formal context.
I'm worried that if we don't act now, it will be too late.
Estou preocupado que, se não agirmos agora, será tarde demais.
'Worried that' followed by a conditional clause expressing concern about a future negative outcome due to inaction.
The constant uncertainty made him feel perpetually worried.
A incerteza constante o fazia sentir-se perpetuamente preocupado.
'Perpetually worried' describes a continuous state of anxiety caused by ongoing uncertainty.
Many people are worried about the rise in unemployment figures.
Muitas pessoas estão preocupadas com o aumento dos índices de desemprego.
Expressing societal concern about economic trends using 'worried about'.
She tried to appear calm, but her worried expression betrayed her.
Ela tentou parecer calma, mas sua expressão preocupada a traiu.
'Worried expression' describes a physical manifestation of the internal feeling.
Despite reassurances, he remained deeply worried about the project's feasibility.
Apesar das garantias, ele permaneceu profundamente preocupado com a viabilidade do projeto.
'Deeply worried' indicates a profound level of concern, often persisting despite efforts to alleviate it.
The environmental activists are worried that current policies are insufficient to combat climate change.
Os ativistas ambientais estão preocupados que as políticas atuais sejam insuficientes para combater as mudanças climáticas.
'Worried that' followed by a clause expressing a specific concern about the effectiveness of actions.
His worried demeanor suggested that something was seriously wrong.
Seu comportamento preocupado sugeria que algo estava seriamente errado.
'Worried demeanor' describes the overall attitude and appearance that signals worry.
There's a growing sense of unease among the population, with many feeling worried about the future.
Há um crescente sentimento de inquietação entre a população, com muitos sentindo-se preocupados com o futuro.
Connecting 'worried' with 'unease' to describe a widespread sentiment about the future.
She was worried sick about the outcome of the surgery.
Ela estava muito preocupada com o resultado da cirurgia.
'Worried sick' emphasizes extreme anxiety related to a critical event like surgery.
The government issued a statement addressing concerns, but many citizens remained worried.
O governo emitiu um comunicado abordando as preocupações, mas muitos cidadãos permaneceram preocupados.
Shows that even official reassurances might not alleviate deep-seated worry.
He had a worried frown, as if contemplating a difficult problem.
Ele tinha uma carranca preocupada, como se estivesse contemplando um problema difícil.
'Worried frown' is a descriptive phrase for a facial expression indicating deep thought and concern.
The investors were worried about the company's declining profits.
Os investidores estavam preocupados com o declínio dos lucros da empresa.
'Worried about' used in a financial context to express concern over negative performance.
The prolonged period of economic uncertainty has left many citizens deeply worried about their financial stability.
O prolongado período de incerteza econômica deixou muitos cidadãos profundamente preocupados com sua estabilidade financeira.
'Deeply worried' conveys a profound and pervasive sense of anxiety about long-term financial security.
She found herself increasingly worried that her colleagues were undermining her contributions.
Ela se viu cada vez mais preocupada que seus colegas estivessem minando suas contribuições.
'Increasingly worried' suggests a growing and escalating concern about interpersonal dynamics at work.
There is widespread public apprehension, with many individuals worried about the implications of the new legislation.
Há uma apreensão pública generalizada, com muitos indivíduos preocupados com as implicações da nova legislação.
Using 'worried about' in conjunction with 'apprehension' to describe a societal concern regarding policy changes.
He couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss, leaving him in a state of constant worry.
Ele não conseguia se livrar da sensação de que algo estava errado, deixando-o em um estado de preocupação constante.
Describes a persistent, nagging feeling of worry, often without a concrete cause identified.
The scientists are worried that the rate of deforestation is accelerating beyond control.
Os cientistas estão preocupados que a taxa de desmatamento esteja acelerando fora de controle.
'Worried that' followed by a clause expressing a grave concern about an environmental issue's escalating nature.
Her worried glance towards the door suggested she was expecting someone.
Seu olhar preocupado em direção à porta sugeria que ela estava esperando alguém.
'Worried glance' is a subtle yet clear indicator of internal anxiety about an impending arrival.
The global pandemic left many feeling profoundly worried about the future of society.
A pandemia global deixou muitos sentindo-se profundamente preocupados com o futuro da sociedade.
'Profoundly worried' conveys a deep, impactful level of concern affecting a large population.
He was visibly worried, his usual composure replaced by a palpable anxiety.
Ele estava visivelmente preocupado, sua compostura habitual substituída por uma ansiedade palpável.
'Visibly worried' and 'palpable anxiety' highlight the external signs of internal distress.
The pervasive sense of geopolitical instability has rendered populations globally worried about the ramifications for international trade.
O senso generalizado de instabilidade geopolítica tornou as populações globais preocupadas com as ramificações para o comércio internacional.
'Pervasive sense' and 'rendered populations worried' suggest a widespread and significant impact of global events on collective anxiety.
She confessed to feeling a gnawing worry that her prolonged absence might jeopardize her career prospects.
Ela confessou sentir uma preocupação incômoda de que sua ausência prolongada pudesse comprometer suas perspectivas de carreira.
'Gnawing worry' describes a persistent, deeply unsettling anxiety that eats away at one's peace of mind.
The scientific community remains deeply concerned, and indeed worried, that the unchecked acceleration of technological advancement poses unforeseen existential risks.
A comunidade científica permanece profundamente preocupada, e de fato preocupada, com o fato de que a aceleração descontrolada do avanço tecnológico representa riscos existenciais imprevistos.
Uses 'deeply concerned, and indeed worried' for emphasis and 'unforeseen existential risks' to denote high-level apprehension.
His reticence to discuss the matter only served to amplify her already considerable worries.
Sua relutância em discutir o assunto apenas serviu para amplificar suas preocupações já consideráveis.
'Considerable worries' and 'amplify' suggest that the level of concern was already high and was worsened by the lack of communication.
The persistent threat of cyberattacks has left businesses perpetually worried about the integrity of their data.
A ameaça persistente de ciberataques deixou as empresas perpetuamente preocupadas com a integridade de seus dados.
'Perpetually worried' describes a continuous and ongoing state of anxiety due to a constant threat.
Despite the official assurances, a palpable undercurrent of worry persisted among the electorate regarding the economic outlook.
Apesar das garantias oficiais, uma corrente subterrânea palpável de preocupação persistiu entre o eleitorado em relação à perspectiva econômica.
'Palpable undercurrent of worry' suggests a subtle but widely felt anxiety beneath surface-level calm.
One cannot help but feel a profound sense of disquiet, bordering on worry, when contemplating the trajectory of global inequality.
Não se pode deixar de sentir um profundo senso de inquietação, beirando a preocupação, ao contemplar a trajetória da desigualdade global.
'Bordering on worry' indicates a strong feeling of unease that is very close to actual worry.
The nation found itself increasingly worried about the erosion of democratic norms.
A nação se viu cada vez mais preocupada com a erosão das normas democráticas.
'Erosion of democratic norms' is a complex concept that naturally leads to widespread worry.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Used to express personal concern about a specific person, thing, or situation.
I'm worried about my health.
— Used to reassure someone and tell them not to feel anxious.
Don't be worried, everything will be fine.
— Describes the appearance of someone who is showing signs of anxiety or concern.
He looked worried when he saw the results.
— An idiom meaning extremely worried or anxious.
She was worried sick about her lost dog.
— A direct question to inquire if someone is feeling anxious or concerned.
Are you worried about the presentation?
— Emphasizes extreme worry about a particular subject.
They were worried sick about the financial crisis.
— Indicates that specific information caused a feeling of anxiety.
The news about the accident made me worried.
— Used to express concern about a specific potential future event or outcome.
I'm worried that I might fail the exam.
— Describes the facial appearance that indicates someone is feeling anxious.
She had a worried expression on her face.
— Another idiom meaning extremely worried.
He was worried stiff about the upcoming trial.
Often Confused With
'Worried' is the past participle and adjective form, describing the state of being anxious. 'Worry' (verb) is the action of feeling or causing anxiety. Example: 'Don't worry.' (verb) vs. 'I am worried.' (adjective).
'Worrying' describes something that causes worry, whereas 'worried' describes the person feeling the worry. Example: 'That is a worrying situation.' (causes worry) vs. 'I am worried about that situation.' (feeling worry).
While sometimes confused due to similar sounds or contexts of disengagement, 'bored' means lacking interest or stimulation, while 'worried' means anxious or concerned. Example: 'I am bored with the lecture.' vs. 'I am worried about the exam.'
Idioms & Expressions
— Extremely worried or anxious about something. This phrase emphasizes the intensity of the feeling.
She was worried sick about her son when he didn't call.
Informal— To feel very nervous or worried, often experiencing a physical sensation of tightness or discomfort in the stomach.
I always get a knot in my stomach before a big exam.
Informal— To be nervous, irritable, and anxious, often because of worry or a difficult situation.
The constant delays had everyone on edge.
Informal— A common physical manifestation of nervousness or worry.
He started biting his nails as he waited for the verdict.
Informal— To feel nervous or anxious, typically before doing something important.
I always get butterflies in my stomach before I have to speak in public.
Informal— To be so worried about something that it prevents you from sleeping.
Don't lose sleep over such a small issue.
Informal— To walk back and forth nervously, usually because of worry or anxiety.
He was pacing the floor while waiting for the news.
Informal— To be extremely upset, anxious, or worried.
She was beside herself with worry when her child went missing.
Informal— To cause someone a lot of worry and anxiety.
Your constant lateness is worrying the life out of me!
Informal— To have lines on your forehead because you are thinking hard, worried, or annoyed.
He sat with a furrowed brow, contemplating the problem.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both 'worried' and 'worry' relate to the concept of anxiety and concern.
'Worried' is primarily an adjective describing the state of being anxious or concerned. 'Worry' can be a verb (to feel anxious or to cause anxiety) or a noun (a state of anxiety or the cause of it). Example: 'I worry about my exams.' (verb) vs. 'I am worried about my exams.' (adjective) vs. 'My main worry is the cost.' (noun).
He tends to worry too much. She is worried about the future. The constant worry was exhausting.
Both end in '-ing' and relate to the concept of anxiety.
'Worried' is the adjective describing the person who feels anxious. 'Worrying' is also an adjective but describes the thing or situation that causes the anxiety. Example: 'The student was worried.' (feeling anxious) vs. 'The exam was worrying.' (causing anxiety).
The child was worried. The news was worrying.
Both words describe feelings of unease and apprehension.
'Worried' often implies concern about a specific problem or event. 'Anxious' can sometimes suggest a more generalized, persistent, or even free-floating sense of unease, often without a clear identifiable cause, or a strong desire for something to happen.
I'm worried about the meeting tomorrow. She felt anxious about the upcoming changes. He was anxious to start his new job.
Both express a degree of care or attention to a situation.
'Concerned' is generally milder than 'worried'. It suggests thoughtfulness and a desire for a positive outcome, whereas 'worried' implies a stronger feeling of apprehension or fear about potential negative outcomes.
The teacher is concerned about the student's progress. The parents were worried about their child's high fever.
Both relate to feelings of unease about the future.
'Apprehensive' specifically refers to unease about something that is about to happen, often with a sense of dread or foreboding. 'Worried' is broader and can apply to past, present, or future concerns.
He was apprehensive about his first day at the new job. She was worried about the results of the test.
Sentence Patterns
I am worried about [noun].
I am worried about the test.
She is worried.
She is worried.
He looked worried.
He looked worried when he heard the news.
Are you worried that [clause]?
Are you worried that you will be late?
They were worried about [noun phrase].
They were worried about the project's success.
I'm worried sick about [noun/situation].
I'm worried sick about the upcoming storm.
Subject + remained/stayed + worried + about + [noun phrase].
Despite assurances, he remained worried about the consequences.
A [adjective] sense of worry persisted regarding [noun phrase].
A palpable sense of worry persisted regarding the economic outlook.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very High
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Using 'worried' to describe a situation or object directly.
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The situation is worrying. / I am worried about the situation.
The adjective 'worried' describes a person's feeling of anxiety. Situations or things that cause this feeling are described as 'worrying'. You cannot say 'The car is worried' or 'The exam is worried'. Instead, you would say 'The car is old and might break down, making me worried' or 'The exam is difficult, which is worrying.'
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Incorrect preposition usage.
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I am worried about my test.
The most common and idiomatic preposition to use with 'worried' when indicating the subject of concern is 'about'. Phrases like 'worried for' or 'worried of' are generally incorrect or less common in standard English.
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Confusing the adjective 'worried' with the verb 'to worry'.
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I am worried. / I worry too much.
'Worried' is an adjective describing a state of being. 'Worry' is a verb describing the action of feeling anxious or causing anxiety. You are 'worried' (adjective), but you 'worry' (verb).
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Using 'worried' when 'bored' or 'tired' is more appropriate.
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I am bored with the lecture. / I am tired after the long day.
These words have distinct meanings. 'Worried' relates to anxiety and concern. 'Bored' means lacking interest or stimulation. 'Tired' means needing rest. Confusing them can lead to misunderstandings. For example, saying 'I am worried about this long lecture' implies anxiety, not a lack of engagement.
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Using 'worried' in formal contexts without qualification.
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The stakeholders expressed considerable concern regarding the project's feasibility.
While 'worried' is universally understood, in highly formal or professional writing, using synonyms like 'concerned', 'apprehensive', or 'expressing concern' might be more appropriate to convey a nuanced or less overtly emotional tone. 'Worried' can sometimes sound too personal or informal in such settings.
Tips
Distinguish from 'Worrying'
Remember that 'worried' describes the person feeling anxious, while 'worrying' describes the thing or situation causing the anxiety. For example, 'The student was worried about the test' (the student feels anxious), but 'The test was worrying' (the test caused anxiety).
Master Prepositions
The most common preposition used with 'worried' is 'about'. Always pair 'worried' with 'about' when specifying the cause of concern, e.g., 'worried about the future'. Use 'worried that' followed by a clause for expressing concern about a specific outcome.
Intensify Your Worry
To express a higher degree of worry, use adverbs like 'deeply', 'very', 'extremely', or informal idioms like 'worried sick'. For milder worry, use 'a little worried' or 'slightly worried'.
Stress and Sound
Pay attention to the stress on the first syllable ('WOR-ried'). Ensure you pronounce the vowel sound correctly for your accent (UK: /wʌ/, US: /wɝː/) and the final '-id' sound.
Use It Actively
The best way to learn is by using the word. Try to incorporate 'worried' into your sentences when speaking or writing about your feelings or concerns. Practice with different sentence structures.
Expand Your Lexicon
While 'worried' is common, explore synonyms like 'anxious', 'concerned', and 'apprehensive' to express different shades of meaning and avoid repetition. Understand the subtle differences in their usage.
Avoid Personifying Situations
Remember that 'worried' describes a feeling. A situation or object cannot be 'worried'; it can only be 'worrying' (causing worry). Correct usage: 'I am worried about the storm,' not 'The storm is worried.'
Learn Related Idioms
Familiarize yourself with idioms related to worry, such as 'worried sick', 'knot in one's stomach', or 'on edge'. These expressions add color and naturalness to your speech.
Cultural Expression
In many English-speaking cultures, openly discussing worries is seen as healthy. It's a way to seek support and build connections. Be aware of how worry is expressed in different social contexts.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'worm' (wor-) eating away at your 'reed' (-ried), causing you distress and making you feel worried. The image of a worm consuming something vital can represent the consuming nature of worry.
Visual Association
Picture a person with a very furrowed brow, wringing their hands, and looking towards a dark cloud or a looming deadline. This visual emphasizes the feeling of anxiety and concern.
Word Web
Challenge
For the next week, try to notice every time you hear or use the word 'worried'. Write down the sentence and the context. This active observation will help solidify your understanding and usage of the word.
Word Origin
The word 'worried' derives from the Old English word 'wyrigan', which meant 'to choke, strangle, or suffocate'. This evolved into Middle English 'worien', meaning 'to choke, strangle, injure, or torment'. The sense of mental torment and anxiety developed over time.
Original meaning: To choke, strangle, or torment.
Indo-European > Germanic > West Germanic > Anglo-Frisian > Old EnglishCultural Context
While expressing worry is normal, it's important to be mindful of not causing undue alarm or anxiety in others. Excessive or unfounded worry can be detrimental. In professional contexts, expressing worry should be constructive and solution-oriented.
In English-speaking cultures, openly expressing worry is generally accepted and often encouraged as a way to seek support or connect with others. It's a common topic in casual conversation and a key element in portraying relatable characters in media.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Personal well-being and health
- worried about my health
- worried about my child's fever
- feeling worried
- don't be worried
Academic and professional life
- worried about the exam
- worried about the project deadline
- worried about performance
- worried that I might fail
Future events and uncertainty
- worried about the future
- worried about the changes
- worried about the outcome
- worried that it might happen
Relationships and family
- worried about my parents
- worried about my friend
- a worried mother
- worried sick about someone
Societal and global issues
- worried about the economy
- worried about climate change
- worried about political instability
- people are worried
Conversation Starters
"Is there anything you're particularly worried about right now?"
"How do you usually cope when you feel worried about something?"
"What's one thing that always makes you feel a bit worried?"
"When was the last time you were really worried, and what happened?"
"Do you think it's healthy to be worried about the future, or is it better to focus on the present?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you were worried about something specific. What were your thoughts and feelings?
Write about a situation where you were worried, but it turned out okay in the end. What did you learn?
If you could send a message to your past self when you were very worried, what would you say?
Explore the physical sensations you experience when you feel worried. How does your body react?
What steps can you take to reduce your worries about a particular issue in your life?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Worried' is an adjective that describes a person who feels anxious or concerned. For example, 'The mother was worried about her child.' 'Worrying' is also an adjective but describes something that causes anxiety. For example, 'The news was worrying.' The situation itself is worrying, and the person experiencing it is worried.
No, 'worried' itself is an adjective. The verb form is 'to worry'. For example, 'I worry about my exams' (verb), whereas 'I am worried about my exams' (adjective).
The most common preposition is 'about'. We say 'worried about something' or 'worried about someone'. For example, 'He is worried about his job.' You might also hear 'worried that' followed by a clause, like 'She is worried that she might miss the train.'
You can use adverbs like 'deeply', 'very', or 'extremely' before 'worried' (e.g., 'deeply worried'). Idiomatic phrases like 'worried sick' or 'worried stiff' also convey intense worry, but these are informal.
While understandable, 'worried about you' is more common and idiomatic in English when expressing concern for someone's well-being. 'Worried for' might sometimes imply a sense of responsibility or fear for their safety in a specific dangerous situation, but 'about' is the general go-to preposition.
No, a situation cannot be 'worried' because 'worried' describes a feeling or state of mind that only sentient beings can experience. A situation can be 'worrying' (causing worry), or you can be 'worried about' the situation. For example, 'The situation is worrying.' or 'I am worried about the situation.'
They are often used interchangeably. However, 'worried' usually refers to unease about a specific problem or event. 'Anxious' can sometimes imply a more general, persistent, or less defined feeling of unease, or even a strong desire for something to happen.
You use the past tense of the verb 'to be'. For example: 'Yesterday, I was worried about the presentation.' 'They were worried when they heard the news.'
'Worried sick' is an informal idiom used to express extreme worry or anxiety. It means you are so worried that you feel physically unwell. For example, 'She was worried sick about her lost cat.'
Yes, depending on the intensity and context, you can use synonyms like 'anxious', 'concerned', 'apprehensive', 'uneasy', 'distressed', or 'fretful'.
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Summary
The word 'worried' describes a state of feeling unhappy and anxious due to thinking about problems or unpleasant things that might happen. It's a common way to express concern and unease about a situation, often related to uncertainty or potential negative outcomes. For example, 'I am worried about the upcoming exam.'
- Feeling unhappy and anxious about potential problems.
- Describes a state of concern and apprehension.
- Commonly used to express unease regarding future events.
- A fundamental emotion related to uncertainty and risk.
Distinguish from 'Worrying'
Remember that 'worried' describes the person feeling anxious, while 'worrying' describes the thing or situation causing the anxiety. For example, 'The student was worried about the test' (the student feels anxious), but 'The test was worrying' (the test caused anxiety).
Master Prepositions
The most common preposition used with 'worried' is 'about'. Always pair 'worried' with 'about' when specifying the cause of concern, e.g., 'worried about the future'. Use 'worried that' followed by a clause for expressing concern about a specific outcome.
Intensify Your Worry
To express a higher degree of worry, use adverbs like 'deeply', 'very', 'extremely', or informal idioms like 'worried sick'. For milder worry, use 'a little worried' or 'slightly worried'.
Stress and Sound
Pay attention to the stress on the first syllable ('WOR-ried'). Ensure you pronounce the vowel sound correctly for your accent (UK: /wʌ/, US: /wɝː/) and the final '-id' sound.
Example
I am worried about my English exam tomorrow.
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This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More Emotions words
abanimfy
C1A collective psychological state characterized by a profound loss of vitality, spirit, or motivation within a specific group or community. It describes the stagnation that occurs when a social structure or organization loses its shared sense of purpose and creative energy.
abanimize
C1The systematic process of neutralizing or stripping away emotional intensity from a situation to achieve a state of detached objectivity. It is primarily used to describe a mental state where complex human sentiments are reduced to manageable, clinical facts to avoid personal bias.
abhor
C1To feel a strong sense of horror, disgust, or intense hatred toward something. It is a formal verb used to describe a deep-seated moral or emotional repulsion.
abminity
C1To regard something with intense loathing or extreme disgust; to treat an object or idea as an abomination. It is used in high-level contexts to describe a profound moral or aesthetic aversion toward an action or concept.
abmotine
C1Describes a state of being emotionally detached or lacking intrinsic motivation, often characterized by a cold, clinical, or indifferent stance. It is used to denote a specific lack of movement or response to external emotional stimuli.
abominable
C1Causing a feeling of hatred or disgust; very unpleasant or disagreeable. It often describes something morally repulsive or extremely bad in quality.
abphilous
C1To consciously withdraw or distance oneself from a previous affinity, attraction, or emotional attachment. It involves a systematic effort to break a psychological bond in order to achieve a state of neutrality or objectivity.
absedhood
C1Describing a state of being profoundly detached or emotionally withdrawn from one's surroundings or social responsibilities. It refers to a specific condition of intense, often self-imposed, isolation or a lack of interest in external affairs.
abvidness
C1The quality or state of being intensely eager, enthusiastic, or consumed by a particular interest or desire. It represents a level of dedication and spirited engagement that often goes beyond standard enthusiasm, typical of scholars, collectors, or hobbyists.
adacrty
C1Alacrity refers to a cheerful readiness, promptness, or willingness to do something. It describes not only the speed of an action but also the positive and enthusiastic attitude of the person performing it.
