Translation guide
The English word "apprehension" has two main meanings: (1) anxiety or fear about the future, and (2) understanding or grasping an idea. It can also refer to the act of arresting someone. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Expressing worry, unease, or dread about a future event
The most common and natural word for a general feeling of anxiety or unease about the future. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
I feel apprehension about the exam results.
He voiced his apprehension about the future.
More formal than 不安, often used in news, business, or official contexts to express concern about a specific issue or risk.
There is growing apprehension about the economic slowdown.
We have some apprehension regarding safety.
Common word for worry or concern, often about personal matters. Slightly less formal than 懸念, and can imply a more emotional, caring worry.
My mother feels apprehension about my health.
I am filled with apprehension about his safety.
Formal, somewhat literary term for apprehension or misgivings, often used in written language or serious discussions about potential negative outcomes.
Voices of apprehension are being raised about the progress of environmental destruction.
Expressing comprehension or the act of mentally seizing a concept
The most common word for understanding or comprehension. Can be used in almost any context.
Apprehension of his theory is difficult.
My apprehension of this issue has deepened.
Implies a firm grasp or clear understanding of a situation, facts, or details. Often used in business or formal settings.
Refers to recognition or awareness, often used when talking about how something is perceived or understood cognitively.
A formal, somewhat literary term for mastering or fully internalizing a skill or concept through effort. Not used for simple understanding.
Referring to the act of taking someone into custody
The standard legal term for arrest. Used in news, police contexts, and formal situations.
They succeeded in the apprehension of the suspect.
He was arrested on suspicion of theft.
A more dramatic or literary term for capture or apprehension, often used in historical or action contexts. Not common in everyday speech.
不安 is a general feeling of anxiety or unease, often without a specific object. 心配 is more about worrying over someone or something specific, often with a caring nuance. 懸念 is formal and used for concerns about risks or problems, common in news and business.
逮捕 is strictly for legal arrests by authorities. For capturing a person in a non-legal sense (e.g., in a game or chase), use 捕まえる (つかまえる) instead.
We need an accurate apprehension of the current situation.
He has a full apprehension of the problem.
危険の認識が不足していた。
There was a lack of apprehension of the danger.
He achieved a complete apprehension of the technique.
The apprehension of the criminal took time.