noun
Uncommon
apprehension
ap-rih-HEHN-shuhn
Apprehension (noun) means a worried feeling that something bad might happen; anxiety about the future. Example: “She felt a growing sense of apprehension as the exam approached.”
noun
1
A worried feeling that something bad might happen; anxiety about the future.
"She felt a growing sense of apprehension as the exam approached."
"There was some apprehension among staff about the merger."
2
The act of catching or arresting someone.
"The apprehension of the suspect took place at the airport."
3
Basic understanding or grasp of an idea.
"His apprehension of the material improved after the extra lessons."
How to use apprehension
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsually means nervous worry about what might happen next; less commonly, the act of arresting someone or a basic grasp of something.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with comprehension (deep understanding) — apprehension in the "understanding" sense is more basic and immediate.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a sense of apprehension
apprehension about
with some apprehension
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Word forms
- Plural
- apprehensions
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She felt a growing sense of _____ as the exam approached.
Etymology
From Latin apprehensio, "a taking hold of" — the same root as apprehend and comprehend.
Synonyms
View more →
dread
discernment
catch
savvy
understanding
pinch
apprehensiveness
collar
arrest
misgiving
qualm
trepidation
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for apprehension
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for apprehension →
Frequently asked questions
What does “apprehension” mean?
The word “apprehension” means a worried feeling that something bad might happen; anxiety about the future. In plain terms, usually means nervous worry about what might happen next; less commonly, the act of arresting someone or a basic grasp of something.
How do you pronounce “apprehension”?
“Apprehension” is pronounced ap-rih-HEHN-shuhn (/æp.ɹiˈhɛn.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “apprehension” in a sentence?
Here is “apprehension” used in a sentence: “She felt a growing sense of apprehension as the exam approached.”
What is another word for “apprehension”?
Words with a similar meaning to “apprehension” include misgiving, qualm and trepidation.
What is the opposite of “apprehension”?
The opposite of “apprehension” — its antonyms — is inapprehension.
What part of speech is “apprehension”?
“Apprehension” is a noun.
Where does the word “apprehension” come from?
The word “apprehension” comes from Latin. From Latin apprehensio, "a taking hold of" — the same root as apprehend and comprehend.
Is “apprehension” a common word?
“Apprehension” is an uncommon word in modern English.
