What is anxious? Pronunciation and usage in English

anxious means . Learn how to pronounce and use anxious through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of anxious

anxiousadjective

/ˈaŋ(k)ʃəs/
Definition & pronunciation of anxious

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "anxious" in English. It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

The word "anxious" is typically broken down into three syllables:

  • an - like the beginning of "ant"
  • xi - like "she" but with a 'z' sound (pronounced like "zee")
  • ous - like "ows" (rhymes with "house")

2. Phonetic Pronunciation (Using IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

This is the most precise way: /ˈæŋkʃəs/

Let's look at each part:

  • /ˈ/: This indicates the primary stress. It's on the first syllable ("an").
  • /æŋ/: This represents the “an” sound – as in "ant". Your lips should be slightly rounded.
  • /kʃ/: This is the tricky part! This represents the "xi" sound. It sounds like “sh” but is formed by quickly bringing your tongue forward and curling your lips slightly. It’s not like saying "she." Think of a very quick “sh” combined with a little “k” sound.
  • /s/: This is the “us” sound – as in “bus”.

3. Simple Explanation and Tips:

  • Start with "an": Focus on saying "an" clearly.
  • The "xi" trick: The key is the “xi.” Many people struggle with this. Try this:
    1. Say "she"
    2. Now quickly add a very short, sharp “k” sound right after it.
    3. The combined sound should be close to the "xi" in "anxious."
  • “ous”: Just say "ows," as in “house.”
  • Smooth it together: Once you get the separate sounds, try to blend them smoothly together.

4. Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly! Here are some resources:

To help me tailor my response further, would you like me to:

  • Focus on a specific part of the word you're having trouble with? (e.g., just the "xi" sound).
  • Provide a slower, more detailed breakdown?

Usage and examples with the word anxious in English

Let's break down how to use the word "anxious" effectively in English. It's a common word, but it can be tricky to use precisely.

1. Core Meaning:

  • At its simplest, "anxious" means feeling worried, uneasy, or apprehensive about something that might happen. It's a feeling of nervousness or unease, often about the future.

2. Forms and Usage:

  • Anxious: This is the base form and adjective. (e.g., “She felt anxious about the exam.”)
  • Anxiously: This is the adverb form. (e.g., “He paced the floor anxiously waiting for the results.”)
  • Anxiety: This is the noun form – the feeling itself. (e.g., “She suffers from anxiety.”)
  • Anxious about: A very common construction. (e.g., “I'm anxious about my upcoming trip.”)
  • Anxious to: Expresses eagerness or anticipation that can be tinged with worry. (e.g., “I’m anxious to hear how the interview went.”)

3. Different Contexts & Nuances:

Let's look at how you might use "anxious" in various situations:

  • Regarding Events/Situations:

    • "I’m anxious about starting a new job." (General worry)
    • "He was anxious about the presentation." (Specific worry about a task)
    • "She felt anxious waiting for the doctor’s call." (Worry about a delay and uncertain outcome)

  • Describing Feelings:

    • "She felt anxious and restless." (Combining anxiety with other emotions)
    • "He had an anxious expression on his face." (Describing a physical manifestation of anxiety)
    • "I have an anxious disposition" (This means you are generally prone to feeling anxious.)

  • Talking about Anxiety as a Condition:

    • “She's been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder.”
    • “He experiences panic attacks, which are a symptom of anxiety."

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

Using synonyms can help you vary your language and be more precise:

  • Worried
  • Nervous
  • Uneasy
  • Apprehensive
  • Concerned
  • Trepidatious (more formal, meaning feeling fearful or anxious about something that might happen)

5. Phrases & Examples:

  • “Don’t be anxious; everything will be fine.”
  • “She took a deep breath to calm her anxious thoughts.”
  • "He tackled the problem anxiously, carefully considering all the possibilities."
  • “The children were anxious for bedtime.”

6. Important Note: Distinguishing from "Scared":

While “anxious” and “scared” can overlap, they’re not exactly the same.

  • Scared typically involves a more immediate, visceral fear of something specific – a monster, a loud noise, etc.
  • Anxious is more of a persistent, underlying worry about something that might happen, often without a specific trigger. You can be anxious about a lot of things without being actively scared of any of them.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you using "anxious" in? (e.g., writing a story, describing a feeling, answering a question?)
  • Is there a specific sentence you’re trying to construct using the word?

Synonyms for the word anxious

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