apprehension - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
apprehension Word Meanings
- A feeling of worry or fear about something that might happen.
- The act of arresting someone.
- The ability to understand or grasp something.
apprehension Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
apprehension Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌæp.rɪˈhɛn.ʃən/
US
/ˌæprɪˈhɛnʃən/
apprehension Word Etymology
Root: ad- (to) + prehendere (to seize) → apprehension, originally the act of seizing, later extended to grasping ideas. Historical origin: from Latin adprehēnsio via Old French aprehension into English. Memory image: imagine a mind grabbing a concept like a detective grabbing a suspect.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Apprehension is a versatile English noun with three main senses. First, it denotes worry or fear about something that might happen, as when you feel apprehension before an exam or a difficult conversation. Second, in legal language, it means the act of arresting or detaining someone. Third, in psychology or everyday use, it can mean the ability to understand or grasp something, especially a concept. These senses are distinct, so learners should watch for context clues: the word can mean an emotional feeling, a legal action, or intellectual grasp. Remember that apprehension is not the same as comprehension for understanding.
Usage Reminders
- - Distinguish emotional worry from legal action and from understanding
- - Use context clues to identify which sense is meant
- - Remember common collocations: feel apprehension about, apprehend a suspect, have a grasp of a concept
- - Do not confuse with comprehension when talking about understanding
- - Practice with three-classified examples in short texts
Common Misconceptions
- Apprehension always means fear of something that will happen.
- Apprehension and comprehension are the same word.
- It only refers to police arrests.
- It cannot be used to describe understanding or learning.
- It is rarely used in formal writing.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate senses clearly in context; learners often confuse emotion with understanding because the spelling is similar to comprehension. Focus on context cues (fear vs crime vs cognition) to tell senses apart.
Learning Tips
- Identify which sense is being used in a sentence before translating.
- Create three mini glossaries: worry, arrest, understanding.
- Practice with legal and educational texts to hear the distinct uses.
- Use paraphrase: replace apprehension with fear or concern when appropriate.
- Memorize key collocations and test yourself with mixed-context sentences.
- Review a batch of examples weekly to reinforce sense separation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'apprehension'?
A.Understanding
B.Happiness
C.Fear
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'apprehension' correctly?
A.He was filled with joy and apprehension about the upcoming trip.
B.She felt content and apprehension upon hearing the news.
C.The students showed apprehension during the surprise test.
D.The cat meowed in apprehension during the thunderstorm.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'apprehension'?
A.Courage
B.Excitement
C.Joy
D.Anxiety
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'apprehension'?
A.Confidence
B.Sadness
C.Anger
D.Surprise
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario might someone experience apprehension?
A.Going for a relaxing spa day
B.Receiving a surprise gift
C.Taking a challenging exam
D.Having a fun day at the beach
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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