frightened
word · lemma: frighten
Definition
Feeling afraid because something scares you or makes you think something bad might happen. It describes an emotional state, often temporary, after a sudden or worrying situation.
Usage & Nuances
Usually describes a person's feeling, not the thing causing the fear: people are 'frightened', things are 'frightening'. Common patterns: 'frightened of', 'frightened by', 'frightened to + verb'. Slightly stronger and more emotional than 'afraid' in many contexts.
Example Sentences
The kids got frightened and ran back inside.
natural
The little boy was frightened by the loud noise.
basic
She felt frightened when she saw the big dog.
basic
I was too frightened to speak.
basic
Don't be frightened — it's just a thunderstorm.
natural
He looked frightened, like he had seen a ghost.
natural