Translation guide
To suddenly become very anxious, frightened, or lose control emotionally. In Japanese, this is often expressed with phrases describing a state of panic, confusion, or being upset, rather than a single verb.
To suddenly feel extreme anxiety or fear, often losing composure.
A direct and common way to say 'get into a panic'. It uses the loanword パニック (panic) and the verb なる (to become). Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
地震のとき、パニックになった。
I got into a panic during the earthquake.
She gets into a panic before exams.
Means to become flustered, hurried, or lose one's head. It implies a state of panic where you act hastily or make mistakes. Very common in daily conversation.
遅刻しそうで慌てた。
I got into a panic because I was about to be late.
慌てないで、落ち着いて。
Don't get into a panic, calm down.
To be flustered, confused, and not know what to do. Slightly more formal or literary than 慌てる. Often used when someone is visibly upset.
突然の質問にうろたえた。
I got into a panic at the sudden question.
To lose one's composure, become emotionally upset, or get into a state of panic. Often used when someone is so distressed they can't think clearly.
彼はその知らせを聞いて取り乱した。
He got into a panic upon hearing the news.
To suddenly feel intense worry or anxiety, often over something specific.
Literally 'become anxious'. This is the most straightforward way to express getting into a state of anxiety or worry.
将来のことを考えると不安になる。
I get into a panic when I think about the future.
Means 'to become unbearably worried'. It emphasizes the intensity of the worry, similar to 'getting into a panic' over something.
子供が帰ってこなくて、心配でたまらなくなった。
When my child didn't come home, I got into a panic.
To suddenly become unable to stay calm, often in a stressful situation.
Literally 'lose one's cool/calmness'. A formal but clear way to describe getting into a panic where you can't think rationally.
彼はプレッシャーで冷静さを失った。
He got into a panic under pressure.
To be shaken, agitated, or disturbed. It implies an emotional upset that can lead to panic. Common in both spoken and written contexts.
その事故のニュースに動揺した。
I got into a panic over the news of the accident.
慌てる (awateru) is more about being flustered and making mistakes due to haste, while パニックになる (panikku ni naru) is a stronger, more clinical term for panic. In casual conversation, 慌てる is very common for minor panics, whereas パニックになる is used for more intense situations.
財布を忘れて慌てた。
I panicked when I forgot my wallet. (minor panic)
火事でパニックになった。
I got into a panic because of the fire. (serious panic)
Do not try to translate 'get into a panic' word-for-word. Phrases like パニックに入る or パニックを得る are incorrect. Use the natural Japanese expressions provided.