Meaning and Usage
The verb 危ぶむ (あやぶむ) means to fear, to have misgivings, or to be doubtful about something. It is often used when expressing concern or worry about a negative outcome or uncertain situation.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in formal or written contexts, such as news reports, expert opinions, or serious conversations about risks and uncertainties. It conveys a sense of caution or apprehension.
Collocations and Patterns
- 計画の成功を危ぶむ: to fear the success of a plan
- 経済の先行きを危ぶむ: to have doubts about the economic future
- 健康状態を危ぶむ: to worry about one's health condition
These collocations show that 危ぶむ is often paired with topics involving outcomes, future events, or conditions that might be problematic.
Nuance and Register
The word carries a somewhat formal tone and is less common in casual conversation. It implies a thoughtful or serious concern rather than a fleeting worry.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 危ぶむ with 危ない (あぶない), which means "dangerous." 危ぶむ is a verb expressing worry or doubt, while 危ない is an adjective describing something as dangerous. Remember that 危ぶむ focuses on the speaker's feelings about risk or uncertainty.