nervous
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈɜːvəs/
US
- /ˈnɜrvəs/
Description
- anxious
- worried
- uneasy
- tense
It is that fluttery, uneasy feeling you get when something important, difficult, or unknown is coming. It often shows up before a big test, a first date, or speaking in front of other people. Almost everyone feels this way sometimes. It can feel like your body is getting ready for something stressful.
You can be nervous, or something can make you nervous, such as strange behavior or a tense situation. Common signs include a shaky voice, sweaty palms, or a restless feeling in your stomach. A small amount can help you stay alert, but too much can make it hard to think clearly or do your best.
The word "nervous" describes a feeling of anxiety, worry, or unease, usually because something important is about to happen or because the result is uncertain. It is the feeling many people get before a job interview, an exam, a performance, or an awkward conversation. For example: "She was nervous before her interview," or "The dark street made him nervous."
"Nervous" often describes a temporary state, like the butterflies you feel before speaking in front of a group. It can also describe a person's general nature. A "nervous person" is someone who tends to worry easily or react strongly to stress.
The word is also used when something causes that feeling. You can say that loud noises, an unsafe place, or someone's strange silence made you nervous. In this use, it means the situation makes you feel uneasy or not fully safe.
The feeling is not only emotional. It often comes with physical signs, such as trembling, a racing heart, dry mouth, or sweaty hands. So whether it lasts for a few minutes before a big moment or is part of someone's usual way of reacting, "nervous" is a common word for that mix of worry, tension, and physical stress.
Examples
- 1
Driving test
I felt nervous before my first driving test.
- 2
Public speaking
She gets nervous when she has to speak in front of a group.
- 3
Family meeting
He's nervous about meeting your parents.
Pattern
nervous about + -ing
worried before doing it
- 4
Animal behavior
The dog is nervous around strangers, so move slowly.
- 5
Baby reaction
Loud noises make the baby nervous.
- 6
Body language
He gave a nervous laugh and looked away.
- 7
Investor reaction
Investors grew nervous after the company missed its sales target.
- 8
Body systems
Stress can affect the nervous system as well as your mood.
Phrase
nervous system
the nerves in your body, including the brain and spinal cord
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- nervousadjective