C1adjective2K

Frustrating

UK /["/frʌˈstreɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈfrʌstreɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

causing you to feel annoyed and impatient because you cannot do or achieve what you want

In simple words: Making someone feel annoyed or upset.

Examples

  • It's frustrating to have to wait so long.
  • The frustrating thing is, they probably won’t even be in when we get there.
  • It was a demeaning and ultimately frustrating experience.
  • It was rather frustrating for all of us.

Usage notes

Use 'frustrating' to describe situations or experiences that cause irritation. It's suitable for everyday conversations but may sound too informal in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

frustrating + object

Memory hint

Think of 'frustration' — it's what you feel when something is 'frustrating'.

Collocations

  • be
  • prove
  • become
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • for

Synonyms

  • irritating
  • annoying
  • exasperating
  • vexing
  • trying

Antonyms

  • reassuring
  • satisfying
  • easy

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'frustrating' with 'frustrated' (feelings vs. causes).
  • 'Frustrating' is sometimes misused to describe people instead of situations.