Fear and Anxiety Idioms

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To be on tenterhooksto feel nervous and excited because you are waiting to find out something or for

something to happen

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Maria has been on tenterhooks since yesterday. She is

expecting a call from her potential

employer.

To be afraid of one's own shadow

easily frightened or very nervous

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The day there was an earthquake, my

daughter was afraid of her own shadow.

To have nerves of steelto be brave and calm in a dangerous or

difficult situation

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When the alarm went off, Jacob kept the audience calm in the conference

room. He really has nerves of steel.

To break out in a (cold) sweatTo be in a state of nervousness or fear,

especially one in which you are sweating

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Anneta is afraid of snakes. She would break out in a cold sweat if she saw one.

To hold one’s breathIf someone is holding their breath, they are

waiting anxiously or excitedly for something to happen or be announced.

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I held my breath when I saw the breaking news about tornado in my home town.

One’s heart skips a beatused to say that someone is very excited, surprised, or frightened

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Mary was returning from work late at night. Her heart skipped a beat when she heard heavy

steps behind her.