Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing fear involves choosing the right word based on the intensity and nature of the fear. Common verbs include 怖がる (to be scared of something concrete), 恐れる (to fear something abstract or serious), and 心配する (to be worried/anxious). The adjective 怖い is also frequently used to describe something as scary or to express one's own fear.
He is afraid of failure.
I'm afraid I can't come.
Expressing fear of a concrete thing, situation, or action, often with a visible reaction.
The most common verb for showing fear of something. It describes a person's fearful reaction to a specific thing. Often used for children or when the fear is outwardly visible.
He is afraid of dogs.
An adjective meaning 'scary' or 'frightening'. When used with the subject marked by が, it expresses that the subject is scared. More common in casual speech.
To be frightened or terrified, often with a sense of trembling or being intimidated. More literary or dramatic.
Expressing fear of consequences, failure, death, or other intangible threats.
Expressing concern or anxiety about a possible negative outcome, rather than immediate fear.
The standard verb for 'to worry' or 'to be anxious'. It implies concern about something that might happen.
Expressing reluctance or fear about performing an action.
A common pattern using the adjective 怖い. The nominalizer の turns the verb into a noun phrase meaning 'doing ~'.
Used to politely express regret or deliver bad news, similar to 'I'm afraid that...' in English.
An adverb meaning 'unfortunately' or 'I'm afraid that...'. Used in formal situations to soften bad news.
怖がる (kowagaru) describes a person's visible fear reaction and takes the feared object with を. 怖い (kowai) is an adjective meaning 'scary'; to say 'I am afraid of X', use Xが怖い. 恐れる (osoreru) is more abstract and formal, often used for fear of consequences or existential threats.
He is showing fear of earthquakes.
It's natural for children to be afraid of the dark.
私は犬が怖い。
I am afraid of dogs.
She is afraid of heights.
彼は脅迫におびえている。
He is living in fear of threats.
Used for fear of abstract things like failure, criticism, or death. More formal and often found in written language. Can also mean 'to be in awe of'.
He is afraid of failure.
People fear death.
Can also be used for abstract fears in casual contexts, but 恐れる is more precise.
He is afraid of change.
My mother is worried about my health.
He is anxious about the exam results.
A na-adjective meaning 'uneasy' or 'anxious'. Often used for a vague sense of worry or insecurity.
I am anxious about the future.
I'm afraid to travel alone.
I'm afraid to tell him the truth.
Uses the verb 怖がる to describe someone else's fear of doing something.
She is afraid of speaking in public.
I'm afraid I have plans that day.
Literally 'while it is regrettable', used similarly to 'I'm afraid that...' or 'unfortunately'.
I'm afraid we cannot accept that offer.
私は地震が怖い。
I am afraid of earthquakes.
He fears death.
The English phrase 'I'm afraid that...' used for polite regret cannot be translated with 怖い or 恐れる. Use あいにく or 残念ながら instead.
I'm afraid it's sold out.