How to Say To Fear in Spanish - Most Used Words

As of 2026, the verb "to fear" in Spanish is translated as temer (IPA: /teˈmeɾ/). This versatile verb conveys the feeling of fear or apprehension towards something or someone. Understanding how to use "temer" correctly can greatly enhance your Spanish communication skills.

What is "To Fear" in Spanish?

Temer implies being afraid or concerned about potential harm or danger. It's crucial to understand how this verb is used in different regions, as its usage may vary slightly.

Meaning of "To Fear" in Spanish

• To hold someone or something as an object of fear.
• To fear a harm by virtue of antecedent grounds.
• To suspect, to believe.
• To feel fear. I fear for my children.

Practical Examples in Spanish

Here are some sentences using "temer" to illustrate its usage:

• No temo a la muerte, pero sí al miedo. (I do not fear death but I am afraid of being scared.)
• El niño teme a las sombras en su habitación. (The child is afraid of the shadows in his room.)
• No debes temer al fracaso, es parte del aprendizaje. (You should not fear failure; it's part of learning.)
• Temí que no llegaría a tiempo para el vuelo. (I feared that I wouldn't arrive on time for the flight.)

Comparison with Other Languages

The concept of fear is universal, but how it's expressed can vary. In English, "to fear" translates directly to "temer," while in French, it’s “craindre” and in German, “fürchten.” Understanding these differences helps broaden your linguistic horizons.

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