What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dread
Example
I dread going to the dentist because it always hurts. [dread: verb]
Example
The thought of public speaking fills me with dread. [dread: noun]
apprehend
Example
The police were able to apprehend the suspect after a high-speed chase. [apprehend: verb]
Example
It took me a while to apprehend the meaning of the poem. [apprehend: verb]
Example
I couldn't help but feel apprehensive about the new job. [apprehensive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dread is more commonly used than apprehend in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Apprehend is more commonly used in legal or academic contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between dread and apprehend?
Apprehend is generally considered more formal than dread. While dread can be used in both formal and informal contexts, apprehend is more commonly used in academic or legal writing.
