student asking question

"worries" and "cares" seem equal, but why is it linked using "or"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Although "worries" and "cares" may have similar meanings, the nuance of these words is different. To "worry" is to be fearful of something whereas to "care" about something is more positive and has nothing to do with fear. If you are "worried" about something or someone, you are afraid it will become worse, but if you are worried for something or someone because you "care" about them, then you are hopeful that the situation will improve and get better. So although these words are similar, the meanings are a bit different since "worry" is negative and "care" is positive. This is why they are able to be linked using "or".

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