What is nervous? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of nervous

nervousadjective

/ˈnəːvəs/
Definition & pronunciation of nervous

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "nervous" in English. It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "nervous" is typically divided into two syllables:

  • ner - vuhs

2. Sounds:

  • "ner": This is pronounced like "nerve" but shorter. Focus on the "er" sound, similar to the "er" in “her.”
  • "vuhs":
    • "vuh": This is similar to the "uh" sound in "cup" or "sun." It's a short, unstressed vowel sound.
    • "s": This is a soft "s" sound, almost like the "s" in “miss.”

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly: "ner-vuhs"

4. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't overemphasize the "v": It's not a pronounced "v" sound like in "very." It’s a softer "vuh."
  • Short "uh" sound: Make sure the "uh" is short and unstressed. Don't try to make it a long "oo" sound.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear it said by a native English speaker. You can find examples on:
    • Google Translate: (Type "nervous" and play the audio.)
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/nervous/) - This site has pronunciations from many native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce nervous."

Resources for Audio:

Would you like me to:

  • Break down any part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "nervous"?

Usage and examples with the word nervous in English

Let's break down how to use the word "nervous" in English. It's a common and versatile word, but it's important to use it correctly to convey your meaning accurately.

1. Basic Definition:

"Nervous" describes a feeling of anxiety, unease, or worry about something that’s going to happen. It's often associated with a physical reaction like a racing heart, sweaty palms, or fidgeting.

2. How to Use It in Sentences:

Here are examples of how to use "nervous" in different contexts:

  • Simple Feeling: "I was nervous about the presentation." (Expressing a general feeling of anxiety.)
  • Before an Event: "She’s incredibly nervous before her first piano recital." (Describes anxiety specifically in anticipation of something.)
  • Describing Symptoms: "He started to sweat and his hands were shaking – he was really nervous." (Details the physical symptoms associated with nervousness.)
  • With “that”: "I’m nervous that I’ll fail the exam." (Expressing apprehension about a specific outcome.)
  • Talking about Personality: "He’s a generally nervous person, so he gets anxious in social situations." (Describing a habitual state.)
  • Asking Someone About Their Feelings: “Are you feeling nervous about the trip?” (A direct question to check their emotional state)

3. Different Shades of Meaning & Related Words:

  • Anxious: Very similar to nervous, often used interchangeably. "I'm feeling anxious about the interview."
  • Apprehensive: Suggests a more cautious and worried feeling. "He was apprehensive about the new project."
  • Worried: A general term for feeling anxious about something. “I’m worried about my sick grandmother.”
  • Uneasy: A feeling of discomfort or anxiety, often without a specific reason. “I felt uneasy about the stranger’s behavior.”
  • Scared: This implies a stronger, more visceral fear. "She was scared of the dark."

4. Adjectives Related to Nervousness:

  • Nervousness: The state of being nervous (noun)
  • Nervy: (Can be positive or negative, depending on context) - Can mean feeling nervous or a little cheeky/bold. “He was a bit nervy, but I liked his confidence.”
  • Restless: Often associated with nervousness; unable to relax.

5. Examples in Conversation:

  • Scenario 1: First Date

    • Person A: “I’m really nervous about tonight.”
    • Person B: “Don’t be! It’s just a casual conversation. What’s making you nervous?”

  • Scenario 2: Exam Time

    • Student: “I’m so nervous about this test. I haven't studied enough.”
    • Teacher: “Take a deep breath. You're prepared, and it’s okay to feel a little nervous.”

6. Common Phrases using "Nervous":

  • "Feeling nervous"
  • "Nervous about…”
  • "Don’t be nervous"
  • “I get nervous when…”

Resources for Further Learning:

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

  • What are you trying to use "nervous" in? (e.g., a story, a conversation, an email?)
  • What specifically are you unsure about? (e.g., the best way to describe a feeling, how to use it with other words?)

Synonyms for the word nervous

Idioms of the word nervous

be frightened/nervous/scared of your own shadow
to be very easily frightened; to be very nervous

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