worry - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
worry Word Meanings
- to feel anxious or concerned about something
- to cause someone to feel anxious
- a state of anxiety or concern
worry Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
worry Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈwʌri/
US
/ˈwɜri/
worry Word Etymology
worry = wurgen (to strangle) + 'to cause to feel anxiety'. From Old English 'wyrgan' meaning to strangle. Picture a person so worried that they feel as if they are being strangled by anxiety.
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
I tilt my chair, move a breath in, and set my gaze on the page, trying to keep control of the moment. A small worry nudges my thoughts, pulling my attention toward what might go wrong. I adjust my plan, lean forward, and shift my focus to how I can handle it, not avoid it. The worry stays, a steady thread I can pull or let go as I decide what to do next.
Real Context
Worry is a common English verb meaning to feel anxious or concerned about something, and worry can also function as a noun for the state of that anxiety. You might worry about an upcoming exam, a health issue, or money, and you can worry about others’ decisions as well. Importantly, worry typically refers to ongoing and future-oriented concern rather than a sudden moment of fear. It can also describe something that causes anxiety, as in 'that news is a worry for us.' The etymology links worry to pressure and strangling images, which helps remember the feeling of tightness anxiety can bring. Learners often confuse worry with care or fear, but care is more about attention and action, while fear is a stronger, immediate emotion.
Usage Reminders
- Know that worry is about ongoing concern, not just a quick fear. Use worry about + noun for future concerns. Worry can describe people or things that cause anxiety. Remember worry is a state (the noun) or an action (the verb). It often pairs with about, not with to. Distinguish worry from care (concern with action) and fear (strong, immediate emotion).
Common Misconceptions
- Worry is the same as fear; worry always involves danger.
- Worry is never about the future, only the present moment.
- Care and worry are interchangeable.
- If you worry, you must ignore actions or solutions.
- Worry always leads to a bad outcome.
Thinking Differences
In English, worry often signals a cautious mindset about future events and tends to pair with about. Other cultures may express concern with different verbs or rely on other emotions (shame, sadness) to describe ongoing unease. Learners may translate literally from their language, producing phrases that sound odd or imply certainty that isn’t there.
Learning Tips
- Use worry about + noun for future concerns
- Pair worry with verbs like persist, grow, fade, or lessen
- Compare worry to fear (if danger is immediate) and care (attention with action)
- Notice that worry can describe people or things that cause anxiety
- Read or listen for natural collocations like 'worrying times,' 'great worry,' 'without worry'
- Practice both verb and noun forms in short sentences
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'worry'?
A.Confidence
B.Joy
C.Anxiety
D.Excitement
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'worry' used correctly?
A.She is always smiling, worry about nothing.
B.I love going to the beach, worry me.
C.He worries about his grades.
D.The worry sunshine brightened up the day.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'worry'?
A.Forget
B.Stress
C.Relax
D.Laugh
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'worry'?
A.Anxious
B.Fear
C.Calm
D.Panic
Step 5: Mastery
How does worrying about small things affect your mental health?
A.It can cause anxiety and stress.
B.It has no effect.
C.It improves mental health.
D.It leads to happiness.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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