What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspicion
Example
I have a suspicion that my neighbor is stealing my mail. [suspicion: noun]
Example
She looked at him with suspicion, wondering if he was telling the truth. [suspicion: noun]
apprehension
Example
I feel a sense of apprehension about the upcoming exam. [apprehension: noun]
Example
The apprehension of the suspect was carried out by the police. [apprehension: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suspicion is more commonly used than apprehension in everyday language. Suspicion is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while apprehension is less common and is often used in specific situations such as law enforcement or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between suspicion and apprehension?
Both suspicion and apprehension can be used in formal and informal contexts, but apprehension may be more commonly used in formal contexts due to its legal connotation.
