# apprehensively

**Pronunciation:** /ˌæprɪˈhɛnsɪvli/ · ap-ri-HEN-siv-lee

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

In a way that shows fear or worry about something that is going to happen.

## Examples

- The child looked apprehensively at the large dog, unsure if it was friendly.
- He opened the email apprehensively, expecting bad news about his job application.
- They watched apprehensively as the storm clouds gathered on the horizon.

## Synonyms

- nervously — General feeling of unease or agitation.
- anxiously — Strong worry or concern, often with a sense of urgency.
- uneasily — Feeling of discomfort or slight worry, lacking peace.
- trepidatiously — With fear or alarm, often implying hesitation.

## Antonyms

- confidently — With self-assurance and belief in one's abilities.
- calmly — Without excitement, fear, or disturbance.
- eagerly — With keen desire or enthusiasm.

## Common patterns

- look apprehensively — To direct one's gaze with worry or fear. — She looked apprehensively at the darkening sky.
- wait apprehensively — To await an event with anxiety. — The students waited apprehensively for their exam results.
- speak apprehensively — To say something with hesitation or worry. — He spoke apprehensively about the potential budget cuts.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/apprehensively

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