What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
afraid
Example
I'm afraid of heights, so I don't like going on roller coasters. [afraid: adjective]
Example
She was afraid to speak in public because she was nervous about making mistakes. [afraid: verb]
nervous
Example
I always get nervous before a job interview. [nervous: adjective]
Example
He was nervous about his piano recital and practiced for hours. [nervous: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nervous is more commonly used than afraid in everyday language. Nervous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while afraid is less common and may be reserved for more intense situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between afraid and nervous?
Both afraid and nervous can be used in formal and informal contexts, but nervous is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
