This week I will be answering a query from a reader. Here is the query: 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 one’s fear, regret, unhappiness, reluctance, unwillingness, distaste, nervousness or the like. Look at these examples:
1. My boss is a short-tempered person. I am afraid to talk to him.
2. I have a plan to go to Ahmedabad next week. I’m afraid I can’t attend your son’s birthday party.
3. My mom doesn’t know that I’m in love with the girl. I’m afraid to reveal it to her.
4. I am afraid of speaking in public.
5. The doctor said that the girl is in a critical condition. I am afraid that she will be able to live for only 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 my regret that I won’t be able to attend the birthday party. In the third sentence, it implies that I am reluctant to tell my mother that I am in love with someone. In the fourth sentence, the meaning is that I am nervous about public speaking. In the fifth sentence, the meaning of the word ‘afraid’ is that I am worried that her days could be numbered.
In conversations, the phrase ‘I am afraid’ is used to politely introduce bad news. In other words, it is used as a polite way of conveying the feeling of disappointment or regret, or replying 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:
1. I am afraid she hasn’t been successful in the interview.
2. I am afraid there is going to be heavy rain for the next two days and you will have to cancel your trip.
3. I am afraid I can be of no help.
4. I am afraid that I do not have time to go through your research paper and edit it.
5. I am afraid the house will be ready only by the end of this month.
6. I am afraid it is not the correct answer.
The phrase ‘I am afraid so’ is also used to confirm bad news or to express regret as in the examples below:
1. A: I don’t think she will be able to get bail this week.
B: I am afraid so.
2. A: Do you 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 some examples:
1. A: Do you think she will get a promotion this year?
B: I am afraid not.
2. A: Will the verdict be in her favour?
B: I am afraid not.
rayanal@yahoo.co.uk