nervousness

Everyday

Nervousness is the feeling of being worried, uneasy or a bit scared about something that is going to happen. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and PSHE lessons nervousness comes before tests, performances, the first day at a new school or a big match; your heart beats fast, you may have «butterflies in your stomach» or shaky hands. It is normal, and slow breathing, practice and talking to someone can help. In stories, nervousness shows through fidgeting, stammering or biting nails. Phrases: «a feeling of nervousness», «hide your nervousness», «nervousness before».

Examples

• She felt some nervousness before her piano exam. tree →
• Deep breaths helped calm my nervousness. tree →
• He laughed to hide his nervousness. tree →
• Nervousness gave me butterflies in my stomach. tree →
• Everyone feels nervousness on the first day of school. tree →
• His nervousness made his hands shake. tree →
• Practice can reduce nervousness before a performance. tree →
• I could hear the nervousness in her voice. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Built from nervous + ness. Similar words: anxiety (stronger, longer worry), nerves («I've got nerves»). A little nervousness can help you focus; if worry is very strong or lasts a long time, talk to a trusted adult.