Fearfulness

/ˈfɪrfʊlnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being fearful; the condition of feeling afraid or experiencing dread.

Etymology

From 'fearful' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ness,' which creates abstract nouns expressing qualities. This is a standard and productive formation in English.

Kelly Says

Unlike 'fearedness,' which focuses on how others perceive you, 'fearfulness' describes your internal emotional state—it's an important distinction in how English's suffix system allows us to express perspectives on the same basic concept.

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