What is Panic?
Panic is a sudden, overwhelming fear or anxiety that can cause irrational behavior, confusion, or a sense of urgency. It often arises in stressful or dangerous situations and can manifest physically (e.g., rapid heartbeat, sweating) and mentally (e.g., racing thoughts, inability to focus).
Synonyms for Panic
Panic has multiple synonyms with varying degrees of similarity. Below are categorized synonyms:
Strongest Matches (Exact Synonyms)
- Alarm
- Hysteria
- Terror
- Fear
- Anxiety
Strong Matches (Closely Related Synonyms)
- Trepidation
- Dread
- Consternation
- Frenzy
- Horror
- Shock
- Distress
- Apprehension
Weak Matches (Loosely Related Synonyms)
- Jitters
- Worry
- Nervousness
- Unease
- Disquiet
- Restlessness
- Confusion
Example Sentences Using ‘Panic’
- Strong match: A sudden wave of panic swept over her as she realized she had lost her passport.
- Strongest match: The fire alarm triggered widespread panic in the crowded mall.
- Weak match: He felt a bit of panic before his big speech but quickly composed himself.
Contextual Usage of ‘Panic’
1. Psychological Context
- Panic attacks are common in individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.
- Chronic panic can lead to conditions like panic disorder, which requires medical attention.
2. Everyday Situations
- Losing important documents may cause momentary panic.
- A missed deadline can induce workplace panic.
3. Emergency Situations
- Natural disasters often result in mass panic.
- A sudden economic downturn can cause panic in financial markets.
4. Informal Usage
- “Don’t panic! We still have time to fix the issue.”
- “She panicked when she saw the pop quiz on her desk.”
Related Words
- Panic Attack – A sudden and intense episode of fear or anxiety.
- Panic Button – A figurative or literal emergency action.
- Mass Panic – Widespread fear affecting a large group.
- Panic Buying – Purchasing excessive quantities due to fear of shortage.
- Panic Mode – A heightened state of anxiety leading to irrational decisions.
Additional Information
- Etymology: The word panic originates from the Greek god Pan, who was believed to cause sudden, irrational fear.
- Common Phrases: “Blind panic,” “Cause for panic,” “Panic-stricken.”
- Opposites (Antonyms): Calm, tranquility, composure, confidence, serenity.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or financial advice. If you or someone you know experiences frequent panic attacks or anxiety, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance.
