There are numerous synonyms available for the phrase "was afraid." Some of the common synonyms include frightened, scared, terrified, apprehensive, nervous, and anxious. While the word "afraid" usually denotes a sense of fear and insecurity, using synonyms can enhance the emotion portrayed in the sentence. For instance, if you want to convey a sense of intense fear or extreme nervousness, you may opt for synonyms like terrified, petrified, or jittery. On the other hand, if you want to convey a milder form of fear, phrases like uneasy or hesitant can be used. By using synonyms, you can add more depth and emotion to your writing and create a lasting impact on the reader's mind.