panic
A sudden, strong feeling of fear that prevents reasonable thought and action. It usually happens when someone feels they are in danger or under a lot of stress.
Examples
3 of 5Don't panic; it is just a small spider.
Do not be afraid; it is only a tiny spider.
The crowd stayed calm and did not panic during the fire.
The people remained quiet and did not show extreme fear during the fire.
I was in a total panic when I lost my phone yesterday.
I was very worried and scared when I could not find my phone yesterday.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the Greek god Pan, who lived in the forest and made loud noises to 'panic' travelers.
Quick Quiz
When the lights went out, the children were in a ______.
Correct!
The correct answer is: panic
Examples
Don't panic; it is just a small spider.
everydayDo not be afraid; it is only a tiny spider.
The crowd stayed calm and did not panic during the fire.
formalThe people remained quiet and did not show extreme fear during the fire.
I was in a total panic when I lost my phone yesterday.
informalI was very worried and scared when I could not find my phone yesterday.
Panic is a natural human reaction to a sudden threat.
academicFeeling extreme fear is a normal way for people to react to danger.
The bad news caused a panic among the company's investors.
businessThe negative information made the people who put money in the company very worried.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Don't panic!
Stay calm and do not be afraid.
In a panic
In a state of feeling very scared or rushed.
Panic stations
A state of emergency where everyone is very busy or worried.
Often Confused With
Fear is a general feeling of being afraid, while panic is a sudden, uncontrollable burst of fear.
Anxiety is often a long-term worry about the future, whereas panic is a sharp reaction to the present.
Usage Notes
Panic can be used as both a noun and a verb. When used as a verb in the past tense, you must add a 'k' before the 'ed' (panicked).
Common Mistakes
Learners often spell the past tense as 'paniced' instead of the correct 'panicked'.
Memory Tip
Think of the Greek god Pan, who lived in the forest and made loud noises to 'panic' travelers.
Word Origin
Derived from the Greek word 'panikon', literally meaning 'pertaining to Pan', the god of woods and shepherds who caused groundless fear.
Grammar Patterns
Quick Quiz
When the lights went out, the children were in a ______.
Correct!
The correct answer is: panic
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
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A1A deep feeling of great happiness and pleasure. It is used to describe an intense emotion or something that causes this feeling.
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A1A feeling of being happy and satisfied with what you have or your current situation. It describes a state of peace where you do not feel the need for anything more.
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A1Eager describes a person who has a strong desire to do something or is very excited about something that will happen. It suggests a positive, energetic readiness and a keen interest in a particular activity.
confident
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proud
A1Proud describes the feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction as a result of one's own achievements or the achievements of those one is associated with. It is often used to express honor or high self-esteem regarding a specific quality or action.
relieved
A1Feeling happy and relaxed because something difficult or unpleasant has stopped or did not happen. It describes the sense of comfort you feel when a worry goes away.
cherish
A1To love someone or something very much and want to protect them. It also means to keep a happy memory or a feeling in your heart for a long time.
admire
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tender
A1A gentle and kind feeling or quality shown toward others. It describes a soft emotional state where someone is caring, affectionate, and easily moved by love or sympathy.
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