What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
apprehensive
Example
She was apprehensive about starting her new job. [apprehensive: adjective]
Example
He felt apprehensive about speaking in front of a large audience. [apprehensive: adjective]
nervous
Example
I always get nervous before exams. [nervous: adjective]
Example
She felt nervous about the upcoming interview. [nervous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nervous is more commonly used than apprehensive in everyday language. Nervous is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while apprehensive is slightly more formal and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between apprehensive and nervous?
While nervous is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, apprehensive has a slightly more formal tone and is often used in more professional or serious situations.
