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Disarray Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disarray

[dษชsษ™หˆreษช ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a mess

A state of disorganization or untidiness; a confused or disorderly state.

Synonyms

chaos, confusion, disorder, mess.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disarray

Used to describe a state where things are not orderly or where there is a lack of organization. Often refers to a physical space or a situation in a somewhat formal or descriptive way.

  • The files were in disarray after the move
  • His finances are in complete disarray
disorder

Refers to a lack of order or regular arrangement. Often used more formally or medically to describe physical or mental issues, but can also describe chaotic situations.

  • His room was always in disorder
  • She was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder
chaos

Implies a state of extreme disorder and confusion, often involving many elements interacting unpredictably. Suitable for dramatic or severe situations.

  • The city fell into chaos during the riot
  • The meeting descended into chaos after the announcement
confusion

Refers to a lack of understanding, clarity, or order, often in a mental or situational way. Can apply to both people and situations.

  • There was a lot of confusion about the new policy
  • Her sudden departure caused confusion among the team
mess

Informally describes a disorganized state or a situation where things are not tidy and are out of place. Can be used casually.

  • Your room is a mess; please clean it up
  • The project turned into a mess after the budget cuts

Examples of usage

  • The room was in a complete disarray after the party.
  • She tried to find her keys in the disarray of her purse.
Context #2 | Verb

to cause confusion

To throw (something) into a state of disorganization or untidiness; to disrupt the order or arrangement of.

Synonyms

disorganize, disrupt, unsettle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disarray

Used to describe a state of disorder or confusion, often regarding physical spaces like rooms or organizational elements like plans.

  • The living room was in complete disarray after the party.
  • The sudden resignation of the CEO threw the company's plans into disarray.
disrupt

Used to describe an interruption or disturbance that causes a system, process, or activity to stop or operate less effectively. Commonly used in business, technology, and daily life contexts.

  • The internet outage disrupted our workday.
  • The new app is set to disrupt the logistics industry.
unsettle

Used when something or someone causes a person or group to feel anxious, worried, or uneasy. Often relates to emotions and mental states.

  • The strange noises at night began to unsettle the residents.
  • The unexpected news unsettled everyone in the office.
disorganize

Used when something or someone makes a previously organized system or space become unorganized. It implies an action or process that leads to a lack of order.

  • She managed to disorganize her desk in just a few hours.
  • The unexpected construction project might disorganize traffic in the area.

Examples of usage

  • The unexpected news completely disarrayed her plans.
  • The strong winds disarrayed the neatly arranged garden.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'disarray'

The word 'disarray' originated from the Middle French word 'desarroi' which meant 'confusion, perplexity'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The prefix 'dis-' indicates negation or reversal, while 'array' comes from the Old French 'areer' meaning 'put in order'. Over time, 'disarray' has come to signify a state of disorder or confusion.

See also: array.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,008, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.