B2verbemotionspsychology
US/ˈpæn.ɪk/
UK/ˈpæn.ɪk/
to suddenly feel so afraid or worried that you cannot think clearly
In context
Don't panic if you can't answer the first question; just move on.
Many people panic and buy too much rice when there are rumors of a shortage.
My mum always panics when I don't answer my phone.
Words that go with panic
verb + preposition
- start to panicWhen the plane shook, some passengers started to panic.
- panic overSome investors panic over bad news and sell their shares too quickly.
- panic aboutThere's no need to panic about the exam yet.
- begin to panicIf she can't find her passport, she begins to panic.
noun + noun
- panic buyingPanic buying left the supermarket shelves empty.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Everyone was panicing when the lights went out.Correct: Everyone was panicking when the lights went out.