CHENNAI: Here is a query from a reader: What are the meanings of these expressions: i) I am afraid ii) I am afraid so iii) I am afraid not?
The word ‘afraid’ has many meanings. It is used to express fear, regret, unhappiness, reluctance, unwillingness, distaste, nervousness. Look at these examples:
● My boss is a short-tempered person. I am afraid to talk to him.
● I plan to go to Ahmedabad next week, so I’m afraid I can’t attend your son’s birthday party.
● My mom doesn’t know that I’m in love with the girl. I’m afraid to reveal it to her.
● I am afraid of speaking in public.
● The doctor said that the girl is in a critical condition. I am afraid that she will only live a few more days.
In the first sentence, ‘afraid’ conveys the meaning that I am filled with fear. In the second sentence, the word is used to express regret. In the third sentence it implies reluctance. In the fourth sentence it means I am nervous. In the fifth sentence, the word means worried.
In conversations the phrase ‘I am afraid’ is used to politely introduce bad news. In other words, it is used as a polite way to convey a feeling of disappointment or regret, or to reply to a request in the negative. It is also used to express disagreement. In some cases, it has the same meaning as ‘I am sorry’. Look at these examples:
● I am afraid she hasn’t been successful in the interview.
● I am afraid that there is going to be heavy rain for the next two days and you will have to cancel your trip.
● I am afraid I can be of no help.
● I am afraid that I do not have time to go through your research paper and edit it.
● I am afraid that the house will be ready only by the end of this month.
● I am afraid that is not the correct answer.
The phrase ‘I am afraid so’ is used to confirm bad news or to express regret as a response:
● A: I don’t think she will get bail this week.
B: I am afraid so.
● A: Do we have to wait a few more days?
B: I am afraid so, my friend.
The phrase ‘I am afraid not’ is the opposite of ‘I am afraid so’. Here are examples:
● A: Do you think she will get a promotion this year?
B: I am afraid not.
● A: Will the verdict be in her favour?
B: I am afraid not.
I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion. — Alexander the Great