afraid vs scared

Wie unterscheiden sich diese Begriffe?

"Afraid" and "scared" are often used interchangeably, but they can carry slightly different connotations. "Afraid" typically refers to a more general feeling of fear or anxiety about a situation or outcome, often implying a deeper emotional response. In contrast, "scared" tends to describe a more immediate, visceral reaction to a specific threat or frightening stimulus. For example, one might feel afraid of the dark due to past experiences, while feeling scared during a sudden loud noise. Ultimately, both words express fear, but "afraid" can suggest a broader, more enduring state, whereas "scared" often denotes a momentary feeling.