The difference between I FEAR and I'M AFRAID is that the former can simply express a legitimate fear or trepidation, whereas the latter is used to impart bad news, or a decision that the listener won't be happy to hear.

The boss doesn't accept your reason for not coming in yesterday and I fear we're going to have to let you go (= it hasn't been decided, but I'm genuinely concerned for you); The boss doesn't accept your reason for not coming in yesterday and I'm afraid we're going to have to let you go (= because of this, the boss has decided to terminate you - I'm sorry to tell you, you're fired)

All right, thank you! Then here "I'm afraid" should be translated as сожалею, к сожалению
1. Начальник не принимает твоих объяснений по поводу вчерашнего опоздания и я боюсь, как бы нам не пришлось с тобой распрощаться.
2. Начальник не принимает твоих объяснений по поводу вчерашнего опоздания и, к сожалению, нам придется с тобой распрощаться.

Correct!

👍 Great

Guys, why not ...will HAVE never been published? I think it was overlooked. Or - will never BE published.

Sure, Alexander. And I got 2 likes for the wrong translation... Where have you been before? We need your eagle eye))

I’ll try to keep an eye... 👁