"is afraid of falling" vs "is afraid to fall"

Question

"is afraid of falling" vs "is afraid to fall"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Is afraid to fall" implies a fear of the action of falling itself, while "is afraid of falling" suggests a fear of the consequence or result of falling. The choice between the two depends on the specific nuance the speaker wants to convey.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used when someone is scared of the potential injury or harm that could result from falling.

Examples:

She is afraid of falling and breaking her arm.
He is afraid of falling down the stairs.

Alternatives:

is scared of falling
is nervous about falling
is apprehensive about falling
is hesitant about falling
is anxious about falling

This phrase is used when someone is scared of physically falling down or losing their balance.

Examples:

He is afraid to fall off the ladder.
She is afraid to fall while walking on the icy sidewalk.

Alternatives:

is scared to fall
is nervous about falling
is apprehensive about falling
is hesitant to fall
is anxious about falling

Answer 1

is afraid of falling

This phrase is correct and is commonly used to express a fear of the consequence or result of falling.

Answer 2

is afraid to fall

This phrase is correct and can be used to express a fear of the action of falling itself.

"is afraid of falling" vs "is afraid to fall"

is afraid of falling

is afraid to fall

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