panic - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
panic Word Meanings
- a sudden overwhelming fear
- a state of extreme anxiety or agitation
- to experience sudden uncontrollable fear
panic Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
panic Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpæn.ɪk/
US
/ˈpæn.ɪk/
panic Word Etymology
From Greek 'panikós' meaning 'of Pan', the god of the wild; originally referred to the sudden fear caused by the appearance of the deity. Imagine a shepherd in the woods, suddenly terrified by the rustle of a branch, thinking it might be the god Pan himself lurking nearby.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands on the steering wheel, I tighten my grip and keep the car steady. A sudden siren outside makes the world tilt—my breath quickens and my heart races as I move my eyes back to the road and shift my attention. I tell myself to push the panic back, to adjust my posture, to keep my hands calm. In that moment, panic becomes a signal I act on: I slow down, check the mirrors, and decide what to do next.
Real Context
panic is a noun meaning a sudden, overwhelming fear, or a state of extreme anxiety or agitation. As a verb, it means to experience sudden uncontrollable fear that disrupts thinking and action. Panic can be localized, such as panic about an exam, or widespread, as in a panic that spreads through a crowd. The term often implies an abrupt, irrational reaction rather than a calm, measured response. In everyday use, people might panic in emergencies, public speaking, or when hearing surprising news. The etymology links panic to Greek panikós, originally describing fear caused by the appearance of the god Pan; in English it emphasizes urgency and intensity.
Usage Reminders
- - Panic != fear in general; use it for sudden, irrational fear.
- - Common collocations: panic about/over, panic attack, panicked, panic button.
- - Distinguish passive 'to panic' from active planning; use 'panicked' to describe a person.
- - In emergencies, 'panic' can spread through a crowd; contrast with 'fear' or 'anxiety' for individuals.
- - Prefer 'panic about a situation' rather than 'panic in a situation' in most cases.
Common Misconceptions
- Panic means fear in every situation; it does not distinguish intensity.
- You only panic in danger, not in minor worries or stress.
- Panic and anxiety are the same; panic is more sudden and irrational.
- People panic with places (panic in a building) rather than situations (panic about an exam).
- Panic must be about a concrete event; abstract fears cannot trigger panic.
Thinking Differences
Panic in English emphasizes abrupt, irrational fear and a quick loss of control; learners often confuse it with general fear or anxiety and may misuse with places or events rather than with objects or situations.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: panic about/over, panic attack, panicked, panic button.
- Differentiate panic (n) from panic (v) in sentences.
- Practice short, crisis-based scenarios to reinforce quick reactions.
- Use passive forms sparingly; prefer active descriptions of action during panic.
- Study phrases with ‘about’ to specify what causes the panic.
- Note the noun phrase 'a panic' vs 'panic attacks' for plural usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'panic'?
A.Run
B.Sudden uncontrollable fear
C.Laugh
D.Eat
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'panic' used correctly?
A.He panicked when he saw the spider.
B.She calmly dealt with the situation.
C.They danced happily in the rain.
D.I ate a delicious meal.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for the word 'panic'?
A.Calm
B.Excitement
C.Confusion
D.Fear
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for the word 'panic'?
A.Anger
B.Joy
C.Relax
D.Calm
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone experience panic?
A.Watching a comedy show
B.Taking a leisurely walk in the park
C.Reading a book at home
D.Being in a crowded elevator that suddenly stops
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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