redouter

The French verb "redouter" means to fear, to dread, or to be anxious about something. It expresses a feeling of apprehension or concern about a future event or a potential danger.

Meaning:

• To anticipate something unpleasant or dangerous with fear.
• To be worried or uneasy about a possible outcome.

Example:

• Je redoute cet examen. — I dread (or fear) this exam.
• Elle redoute de parler en public. — She is afraid of speaking in public.

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Synonyms and differences:

1. Craindre

   • Means "to fear" or "to be afraid of."
   • Slightly more formal or neutral than "redouter."
   • Often used in expressing fear of something actual or probable.
   • Example: Je crains la pluie demain. (I'm afraid it will rain tomorrow.)

2. Avoir peur de

   • Literally means "to be afraid of."
   • Common phrase used in everyday speech.
   • More general, can refer to immediate fear, not just anticipated events.
   • Example: J’ai peur des chiens. (I’m afraid of dogs.)

3. Appréhender

   • Can mean "to apprehend" or "to fear" something that might happen.
   • Expresses anxiety or unease about a future event.
   • More formal than "redouter."
   • Example: J'appréhende le résultat. (I’m anxious about the result.)

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Summary:

• Redouter conveys a sense of dread or worry about something anticipated, often more intense or focused on future events than just general fear.
• It is somewhat formal but can be used in both spoken and written French.