How are “afraid” and “scared” used differently?

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Great question! "Afraid" and "scared" have similar meanings but subtle differences in usage. Afraid means feeling fear, reluctance or apprehension. Scared means being in a state of fear, nervousness, or panic. Feeling fear is only one meaning of afraid, whereas it is the only meaning for afraid. Ex: I am scared of dogs. Ex: I am afraid of disappointing the people who believe in me. The grammar is also a little different. "Scared" is often followed by "by," whereas this is not the case for afraid. Ex: She was scared by the loud noise. Ex: She is afraid of loud noises.

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