an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm, a feeling of anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety of someone

put the fear of God into someone, in fear and trembling, live in fear

fear for, no fear, fear the worst

Formal and Informal Expressions of fear

In different contexts, you can replace 'fear' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'apprehension, dread' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'scared, terrified' is a commonplace synonym.

fear: Explore its Definition & Usage

fear Definition

1an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm
2a feeling of anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety of someone

Using fear: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fear" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She has a fear of heights.
Example
The sound of thunder filled him with fear.
Example
I have a fear that I will fail my exam.
Example
He showed no fear in the face of danger.

fear Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for fear

Antonyms for fear

Idioms Using fear

put the fear of God into someone
to frighten someone severely, often as a means of discipline or punishment
Example
When he caught his son stealing, he put the fear of God into him with a stern lecture.
in fear and trembling
with great fear or trepidation
Example
She approached the stage in fear and trembling, afraid she would forget her lines.
live in fear
to be constantly afraid or anxious about something
Example
People who live in high-crime areas often live in fear for their safety.

Phrases with fear

fear for
to be worried about the safety or well-being of someone or something
Example
I fear for the safety of my children when they are out alone at night.
no fear
used to reassure someone that there is no danger or need to worry
Example
A: Can we cross the road here? B: Yes, no fear. There's no traffic coming.
fear the worst
to think that the worst possible thing has happened or will happen
Example
When he didn't come home last night, I feared the worst and called the police.

Origins of fear

from Old English 'fǣr', meaning 'calamity, sudden danger'

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Summary: fear in Brief

The term 'fear' [fiər] refers to an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm, or a feeling of anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety of someone. It can be used to describe phobias or general anxieties, as in 'She has a fear of heights,' or to indicate bravery or lack of fear, as in 'He showed no fear in the face of danger.' 'Fear' extends into phrases like 'fear for,' and idioms like 'put the fear of God into someone,' denoting severe fright, and 'live in fear,' implying constant anxiety.