afraid of the dark vs afraid of darkness

Both "afraid of the dark" and "afraid of darkness" are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Afraid of the dark" is more commonly used and refers to a fear of the absence of light, often associated with childhood fears. On the other hand, "afraid of darkness" can also be correct but is less common and may imply a fear of the concept or idea of darkness itself.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 1080 views

afraid of the dark

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially when referring to a fear of the absence of light.

This phrase is used to describe a fear or anxiety related to darkness, often associated with childhood fears or superstitions.

Examples:

She was always afraid of the dark and would sleep with a night light.
Children often develop a fear of the dark as they imagine monsters lurking in the shadows.
Being afraid of the dark is a common fear that many people outgrow as they get older.
He never liked going into the basement alone because he was afraid of the dark.
The child's fear of the dark was so strong that they insisted on sleeping with the bedroom light on.

Alternatives:

scared of the dark
fearful of the dark
terrified of the dark
afraid of darkness
fearful of darkness

afraid of darkness

This phrase is correct but less commonly used in English. It may imply a fear of the concept or idea of darkness itself.

This phrase can be used to express a fear or anxiety related to darkness in a more abstract or conceptual way.

Examples:

She had a deep-seated fear of darkness that stemmed from childhood experiences.
His fear of darkness was so intense that he always kept a night light on in his room.
The character in the story was portrayed as being afraid of darkness due to a traumatic event.
Some people are afraid of darkness because it represents the unknown and the fear of what might be hidden in the shadows.
The fear of darkness can be a common theme in horror movies and literature.

Alternatives:

scared of darkness
fearful of darkness
terrified of darkness
afraid of the dark
fearful of the dark

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afraid of the dark vs afraid of darkness