freak-out
/ˈfriːk aʊt/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A freak-out is a sudden strong feeling of fear, panic, or excitement. It can also mean a situation where someone becomes very upset or loses control.
- I had a total freak-out before the interview.
- Her sudden freak-out surprised everyone.
- Don't have a freak-out over one mistake.
verb
To freak out means to become very scared, angry, or upset. In casual speech, it can also mean to react with extreme surprise.
- He freaked out when he saw the bill.
- Please don't freak out about the news.
- She freaked out at the sound of the alarm.
Adinary Nuance
Freak out is more casual than panic, lose control, or get upset. It often sounds spoken and emotional, not careful or formal. Use it for strong reactions in conversation, not in polished academic writing.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- hoảng loạn
- Spanish
- entrar en pánico
- Chinese
- 惊慌失措
- Japanese
- パニックになる
- Korean
- 당황하다
Etymology
Freak out appeared in American English in the 1960s, built from freak and out. It became common in informal speech and later spread widely in everyday English.
Common phrases
freak out over somethingfreak out about the resulthave a freak-outfreaked out by
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is freak-out formal or informal?
- It is informal. It is common in speech and casual writing, but not ideal for academic or business reports.
- What is the difference between freak out and panic?
- Panic is more neutral and can sound serious. Freak out is more casual and often sounds more emotional.
- Can freak out describe excitement too?
- Yes. It can describe strong excitement or surprise, but fear and upset are more common meanings.
- Is freak out used in Indian English?
- Yes, many speakers use it in casual Indian English, especially in conversation and online chat.