I fear Meaning in English

expression · lemma: fear

US

ˈaɪ/ /ˈfɪɹ

eye FEER

UK

ˈaɪ/ /fˈiə

eye FEE-uh

Definition

A formal or polite way to say that you are worried or think that something negative might be true; often used to gently introduce bad news or concerns.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal writing and speech, especially to soften bad news: 'I fear we are out of options.' Used less in casual conversation, where 'I'm afraid' is more typical. Avoid using to express strong, personal fear (use 'I'm scared' instead).

• Spanish: me temo - me da miedo decir
• Portuguese (BR): receio - temo dizer
• Portuguese (PT): receio - temo dizer
• Chinese (Simplified): 恐怕 - 我担心
• Chinese (Traditional): 恐怕 - 我擔心
• Hindi: मुझे डर है
• Arabic: أخشى
• Bengali: আশঙ্কা করি - ভয় আছে
• Russian: боюсь
• Japanese: 恐れ入りますが - 恐れます
• Vietnamese: tôi e rằng
• Korean: 두렵습니다 - 염려됩니다
• Turkish: korkarım
• Urdu: مجھے اندیشہ ہے
• Indonesian: saya khawatir

Example Sentences

I fear it will rain today.

basic

I fear we are too late.

basic

I fear there is no solution.

basic

I fear you may not like what I'm about to say.

natural

I fear that's all we can do for now.

natural

I fear I won't be able to attend your party next week.

natural