phobia - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
phobia Word Meanings
- an intense fear of something
- a strong aversion to a particular thing
- a psychological condition characterized by excessive fear
phobia Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
phobia Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfəʊ.bi.ə/
US
/ˈfoʊ.bi.ə/
phobia Word Etymology
From 'phobos' meaning fear in Greek, the term 'phobia' evolved through Latin to English. Imagine someone paralyzed with terror, unable to move due to an overwhelming fear, which captures the essence of phobia.
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
Phobia is a persistent, irrational fear that interferes with daily life. It typically targets a specific object or situation, such as spiders, heights, or enclosed spaces. People with a phobia may experience rapid heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, or an urge to flee when confronted with the feared trigger. Unlike ordinary fear, a phobia is excessive and hard to control. The word phobia comes from the Greek phobos meaning fear. In psychology, phobias are categorized as anxiety disorders, with specific phobias focused on one trigger. Treatments commonly include cognitive-behavioral therapy, gradual exposure, and sometimes medication to reduce symptoms.
Usage Reminders
- Use with have/has a phobia of; avoidable phobia vs temporary fear; phobia is a clinical term; not every fear is a phobia; involve therapy when appropriate
Common Misconceptions
- A phobia is just a stronger everyday fear.
- All fears lead to phobias if left untreated.
- Phobias always involve dangerous objects.
- Phobias cannot be treated effectively.
- Feeling afraid means you automatically have a phobia.
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat phobia as a clinical term learned in psychology; learners may overextend general fear to phobia or misuse phrases like 'afraid of' vs 'phobic of'.
Learning Tips
- Learn common phrases: have a phobia of, develop a phobia, overcome a phobia, fear vs phobia
- Notice collocations with exposure therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, gradual exposure
- Practice daily life examples to distinguish 'afraid of' from 'phobic of'
- Use simple mnemonics to remember etymology: phobos = fear
- Read case studies to see variety of phobias (arachnophobia, claustrophobia)
- Keep a mini glossary of related terms: anxiety, panic, aversion
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'phobia'?
A.Extreme or irrational fear of something
B.Fear of water
C.Love for nature
D.Desire for social interaction
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'phobia' used correctly?
A.She felt a phobia of heights when looking down from the tall building.
B.Their phobia towards public speaking made them anxious.
C.He had a phobia of eating ice cream on a hot day.
D.The phobia for learning new languages was a hindrance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'phobia'?
A.Affection
B.Antipathy
C.Bravery
D.Fascination
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'phobia'?
A.Admiration
B.Dislike
C.Respect
D.Courage
Step 5: Mastery
How can someone suffering from a phobia seek help in real life?
A.Avoiding the feared object or situation
B.Gradual exposure therapy
C.Ignoring the fear completely
D.Isolating themselves from society
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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