Cool MateDisturbing
UK /["/dɪˈstɜːbɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈstɜːrbɪŋ/"]/
Definition
making you feel anxious and upset or shocked
In simple words: causing worry or upset
Examples
- a disturbing piece of news
- a profoundly disturbing experience
Usage notes
Use 'disturbing' to describe something that makes people feel anxious or uncomfortable. It can refer to images, news, or behavior, but avoid using it in overly casual conversations.
Grammar pattern
disturbing + object
Memory hint
Sounds like 'dis-turb-ing' — imagine being disrupted during a peaceful moment.
Collocations
- be
- become
- remain
- extremely
- fairly
- very
Synonyms
- alarming
- unsettling
- troubling
- distressing
- worrying
Antonyms
- comforting
- reassuring
- pleasing
Common mistakes
- Inappropriately used for cheerful or positive events.
- Confused with 'disturbed', which means troubled or affected.
- Used as a noun instead of an adjective.