Definition of AFRAID
1:filled with fear or apprehension

2:filled with concern or regret over an unwanted situation

3:having a dislike for something

2 — used in the phrase I'm afraid as a polite way of showing that you are sorry about a disappointing, negative, or critical statement
▪ I'm sorry, but I'm afraid (that) I won't be able to come to your party
▪ She tries hard, but I'm afraid that her work just isn't very good.
▪ I'm afraid that I still don't understand the problem.
▪ This is only the beginning of the battle, I'm afraid.
▪ Most of us worked very hard, but she, I'm afraid to say [=I'm sorry to say; I regret to say], did no work at all.
▪“Is it raining?” “I'm afraid so.” = “I'm afraid it is.” [=yes, it is]
▪ “Can you come to our party?” “I'm afraid not.” = “I'm afraid I can't.” [=no, I can't come]