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For fear of Meaning in English

expression

for-FEER-uhv
foh-FEER-ov

释义

Used to explain that someone avoids something because they are afraid something bad might happen. It shows the reason for an action based on fear.

用法与细微差别

Formal and used mainly in writing or careful speech. Always followed by a noun, pronoun, or verb in -ing form ('for fear of losing'). Common in explanations of actions taken to avoid negative outcomes. Similar to 'lest', but less archaic.

例句

She stayed home for fear of getting sick.

basic

He whispered for fear of waking the baby.

basic

We left early for fear of missing the train.

basic

She didn’t speak up in class for fear of making a mistake.

natural

He hid his feelings for fear of being laughed at.

natural

I avoided the shortcut for fear of running into trouble.

natural