fear-v; 4 Senses

Sense Number 1: feel scared, in danger, or frightened

Commentary: Syntax Is: NP1[experiencer] FEAR NP2[stimulus]
NOTE: This sense implies a more specific version of sense 2. That is, one who is scared or frightened will most likely also be anxious, uneasy or apprehensive about the very thing they fear. But this sense implies feeling scared and in danger, which second sense lacks.

Examples:
That child greatly fears dogs.
Do you think the suicide bomber feared her death?
Bob has always feared his mother's alcoholic rages.
We huddled together, fearing we might be killed.

Mappings:
VerbNet: admire-31.2-1
FrameNet: Experiencer_subj
PropBank: fear.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 2: feel anxious, concerned, uneasy, or apprehensive about

Commentary: Syntax Is: NP1[experiencer] FEAR [stimulus]
NOTE: implies an ongoing low-grade contemplative anxiety. See note in sense 1.

Examples:
She fears her son is not doing his assignments on time.
Some fear that a sharp decline in real estate prices is coming.
John fears his roof may not last another winter.
These companies fear increased competition from overseas.

Mappings:
VerbNet: admire-31.2-1,marvel-31.3-3
FrameNet: Experiencer_subj
PropBank: fear.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1, 2, 4

Sense Number 3: regard with feelings of reverence or respect

Commentary:
NOTE: Use: Generally this sense is used in relation to a deity or a position of power/honor.

Examples:
She was taught by her grandmother to fear the kitchen god.
The men quickly learned to fear the King, for they saw in him god's own wisdom and judgement.

Mappings:
VerbNet: admire-31.2-1
FrameNet: NM
PropBank: fear.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 5

Sense Number 4: be sorry about or regret

Commentary: Syntax Is: NP1[experiencer] FEAR [stimulus]
NOTE: an expression of regret or apology.

Examples:
I fear I left my passport in the top drawer of my desk.
I'll buy her book, but I fear it won't be the hardback version.
Mary said she feared all there was to serve us were some cold leftovers.
I fear my favorite old shoes have finally worn out.

Mappings:
VerbNet: NM
FrameNet: NM
PropBank: NM
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3