Afraid or Affraid
Which Spelling is Correct?
Understanding the difference between "Afraid" or "Affraid": these commonly confused spellings and how to use them properly.
Incorrect: Affraid
"Affraid" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "afraid" with a single 'f'.
Correct: Afraid
"Afraid" is the correct spelling. It means feeling fear or anxiety; frightened.
Definition of Afraid
Afraid (adjective): Feeling fear or anxiety; frightened; worried that something undesirable will happen.
Examples:
- • She is afraid of the dark.
- • I'm afraid I can't help you.
- • He was afraid to speak in public.
- • Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Synonyms for Afraid
Common Synonyms:
- • Scared
- • Frightened
- • Fearful
- • Terrified
- • Alarmed
Related Terms:
- • Apprehensive
- • Nervous
- • Timid
- • Anxious
- • Worried
Usage Notes
Important Points:
- • Afraid is spelled with a single 'f', not double.
- • Commonly used to express fear, worry, or concern.
- • Can be used in both literal and figurative senses.
- • The word comes from Old English "afrædan" meaning "to frighten".
- • The noun form is "fear".
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is "affraid" ever correct?
A: No, "affraid" is never correct. The proper spelling is always "afraid" with a single 'f'.
Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?
A: Remember "afraid" has only one 'f' like "afternoon" or "after".
Q: What's the difference between afraid and scared?
A: They are synonyms, but "afraid" is more formal and can also mean worried or concerned.
Q: Can afraid be used in formal writing?
A: Yes, "afraid" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing.
Q: Is afraid always about fear?
A: No, it can also mean being worried or concerned about something.
Q: Why do people often misspell this word?
A: The misspelling "affraid" likely occurs because of confusion with similar-sounding words or uncertainty about the number of 'f's.
Q: What are some common phrases using "afraid"?
A: Common phrases include: afraid of the dark, afraid to ask, I'm afraid so, and don't be afraid.
Q: Can "afraid" be used in business writing?
A: Yes, "afraid" can be used in business, especially in polite refusals or concerns.
Summary
Remember: Afraid is the correct spelling with a single 'f'. It means feeling fear, anxiety, or concern. The misspelling "affraid" is never correct. Use this word when talking about fear, worry, or being concerned about something.