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apprehensive temperament

[ˌæp.rɪˈhen.sɪv ˈtem.pər.ə.mənt]
noun phrasepl: apprehensive temperaments
temperamento apreensivo
1. A personality disposition characterized by a tendency to worry, feel anxious, or anticipate negative outcomes; a nature inclined toward fearfulness and unease
Her apprehensive temperament made her hesitant to try new things.
Seu temperamento apreensivo a tornava hesitante em tentar coisas novas.
2. In psychology, a constitutional tendency toward anxiety and vigilance to perceived threats
Children with an apprehensive temperament often require more reassurance from caregivers.
Crianças com temperamento apreensivo frequentemente precisam de mais segurança dos cuidadores.
Synonyms
anxious temperamentnervous dispositionfearful natureworrisome temperamenttimid nature
Antonyms
confident temperamentcalm dispositionfearless naturebold temperamentrelaxed nature

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
temperamento apreensivo
Standard usage; common in psychological contexts
São Paulo
temperamento ansioso
Alternative commonly used in clinical settings
Rio de Janeiro
temperamento medroso
More colloquial usage referring to fearful nature
Portugal
temperamento apreensivo
Standard European Portuguese equivalent

Related Idioms & Phrases

to be on edge
to have butterflies in one's stomach
to be a bundle of nerves
to be a worrywart
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