American English
/ˈæŋk.ʃəs/
2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Worried and unable to relax because something bad may happen or because you do not know what will happen.
Anxious is usually pronounced /ˈæŋk.ʃəs/. Some speakers also say /ˈæŋ.ʃəs/, without the /k/ sound.
Worried and unable to relax because something bad may happen or because you do not know what will happen.
I felt anxious about the job interview.
She was anxious while waiting for the test results.
Use anxious about when you mean worried. Say “I’m anxious about the flight,” not “I’m anxious for the flight” when you mean worried.
feel anxious · anxious thoughts · anxious about an exam
be anxious about + noun
feel anxious about + noun
Very eager to do or have something.
The children were anxious to open their presents.
We are anxious for the project to begin.
Anxious to can mean eager, not worried. In everyday English, eager is often clearer.
anxious to learn · anxious to help · anxious for news
be anxious to + verb
be anxious for + noun