Meaning
This grammar pattern indicates there is a possibility that something negative or undesirable might happen. It expresses concern or warning about a potential negative consequence. It is synonymous with similar patterns like 心配がある (worry that) or 危険がある (danger of). Use it to show realistic or foreseeable risks.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 动词辞书形 | 恐れがある |
| 名词 の | 恐れがある |
Examples
-
会社はお客様の個人情報を守らないと、社会的信用を失う恐れがあります。
If the company fails to protect customers' personal information, there is a risk that they will lose social credibility. -
彼の運転の仕方は危ないです。一人で運転させると、事故を起こす恐れがある。
His driving is dangerous. If we let him drive alone, there is a possibility he will cause an accident. -
台風8号は今夜関東地方へ近づく恐れがあります。
Typhoon No. 8 may approach the Kanto region tonight.
Summary
- Expresses a realistic possibility of negative future events or outcomes
- Formation: verb dictionary form + 恐れがある OR noun + の + 恐れがある
- Commonly used for warnings, predictions, or expressing concerns about potential problems