Shudder to think vs. Shutter to think

Shudder to think

/ˈʃʌdər tə θɪŋk/

To feel worried or fearful at the thought of something unpleasant or bad happening

Examples:

I shudder to think what would've happened if he'd stayed.Shudder to think of the chaos that proposal could unleash.She'd shudder to think of ever returning to those days.

Synonyms:

dreadfear

Antonyms:

bravefaceinvite

Shutter to think

/ˈʃʌtər tu θɪŋk/

An expression used to convey discomfort or fear at the thought of something

Examples:

I shutter to think of the risks involved in that venture.She shudders to think what might happen if they meet again.He shuddered to think how much that could cost them next year.

Synonyms:

This word has no synonyms

Antonyms:

This word has no antonyms

Ways to tell them apart:

• "Shudder to think" uses the word shudder, which means to shake due to fear or disgust.
• "Shutter to think" mistakenly uses shutter, as in the movable cover for a window or camera, which does not make sense in this context.
• Remember that shudder is associated with an involuntary physical reaction, often connected to emotion, while shutter is related to closing or covering.
• The correct phrase is shudder to think, reflecting a mental reaction to something disturbing.
• If you shutter to think, youre likely talking about camera settings, which doesnt fit the idiom.