Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Panic” — 6 Other Ways to Say It
intense sudden fear that makes people act without thinking clearly
Meanings of Panic — Pick the Sense You Need
Panic has 2 common meanings. The synonyms below are grouped by meaning so you can jump straight to the sense you need.
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Meaning #1
as a noun
intense sudden fear that makes people act without thinking clearly
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Meaning #2
as a verb
to become suddenly very frightened and lose control of your actions
How to Pronounce Panic
IPA: /ˈpæn.ɪk/ Stress: Oo
Stress the first syllable: PAN-ik. The 'a' sounds like the 'a' in 'cat'.
4 Synonyms for Panic (Meaning #1 — as a noun)
These synonyms work when you use panic as a noun. Meaning: intense sudden fear that makes people act without thinking clearly
fear
/fɪr/The feeling you get when you are scared or worried about something bad.
Example: She has a fear of heights.
alarm
/əˈlɑːrm/A sound or signal that warns you about danger or wakes you up at a specific time.
Example: My alarm went off at 6 o'clock this morning.
terror
/ˈtɛrər/Very strong fear or something that makes you very afraid.
Example: The child felt terror when the thunder crashed overhead.
4 Synonyms for Panic (Meaning #2 — as a verb)
These synonyms work when you use panic as a verb. Meaning: to become suddenly very frightened and lose control of your actions
Smart Synonyms for Panic — When to Use Each
anxiety
ongoing worry; panic is sudden
terror
extreme fear; panic emphasizes irrationality
alarm
sudden concern; panic is more intense and uncontrolled
Antonyms of Panic — Opposite Words
How to Use Panic and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- She felt a wave of panic when she couldn't find her passport. A2
- There was mass panic in the theater when the fire alarm went off. B1
- The financial crisis triggered widespread panic among investors and consumers. B2
- Don't panic! Everything will be okay. A2
- When he heard the news, he panicked and ran out of the office. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Panic
What is another word for "panic"?
Common synonyms for "panic" include: fear, alarm, dread, terror, fret.
What can I say instead of "panic"?
Try one of these alternatives: fear, alarm, dread, terror, fret. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "panic" formal or informal?
"panic" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "panic" instead of "fear"?
Use "panic" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "fear" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "panic"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "panic" include: calm, composure, peace, relax, compose.