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Disturb Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disturb

[dษชหˆstษœหrb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

intransitive

To interrupt the normal function or course of something, especially by causing a disturbance.

Synonyms

disrupt, interrupt, unsettle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disturb

Causing worry or anxiety, besides creating inconvenience or annoyance.

  • The news was deeply disturbing to everyone
  • The eerie silence in the house disturbed her
disrupt

Refers to causing a break or interruption in the normal flow or activity, often in a significant or large-scale context.

  • The protest disrupted traffic for several hours
  • Her sudden decision disrupted the entire team's plans
interrupt

Used when stopping someone from speaking or causing a pause in an activity, often momentarily.

  • She interrupted him before he could finish his sentence
  • I'm sorry to interrupt, but you have a phone call
unsettle

Refers to causing someone to feel anxious, worried or uncomfortable; often has a more emotional implication.

  • The strange noises in the night unsettled the children
  • His sudden change in behavior was unsettling to everyone

Examples of usage

  • The loud noise disturbed my concentration.
  • The phone call disturbed her peaceful evening.
Context #2 | Verb

transitive

To interfere with the mental or emotional state of someone; to make uneasy or anxious.

Synonyms

perturb, upset, worry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disturb

When you need to describe an interruption or break in someone's peace or routine, often with a neutral or slightly negative connotation.

  • Please don't disturb me while I'm studying
  • The loud music disturbed the neighbors
upset

When describing causing someone to feel emotional distress, sadness, or anger, often with a personal or emotional negative impact.

  • The news about the accident really upset her
  • She was upset over the misunderstanding
perturb

In situations where you want to express that something or someone caused someone else to feel anxious or unsettled, often used in formal or scientific contexts.

  • The unexpected results perturbed the scientists
  • He was perturbed by her sudden change in behavior
worry

Used to describe causing someone to feel anxious or concerned about potential problems or dangers.

  • She began to worry about her son's safety
  • The rising costs of living worry many people

Examples of usage

  • The news report disturbed many viewers.
  • His behavior disturbed his colleagues.
Context #3 | Noun

countable

An interruption of a settled and peaceful condition; a disruption.

Synonyms

commotion, disruption, turmoil.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disturb

This word is often used when someone or something interrupts or causes discomfort to someone else. It can be used in both personal and professional settings, and it can also have a negative connotation, implying annoyance or intrusion.

  • Please do not disturb him while he's working.
  • The loud music disturbed the neighbors.
disruption

This word is used when there is an interruption that causes something to stop functioning as expected. It is often used in formal or technical settings, such as business, technology, or scheduled events.

  • The power outage caused a significant disruption to the meeting.
  • There were disruptions in the train service due to the storm.
commotion

This word is typically used to describe a noisy disturbance, often involving a group of people. It suggests a scene of confusion and excitement, usually happening in a public place.

  • There was a commotion in the street when the parade passed by.
  • He was awakened by the commotion outside his window.
turmoil

This word is used to describe a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty, often involving emotional or psychological stress. It is usually used in more serious contexts and can have a negative connotation.

  • The country was in turmoil after the election results were announced.
  • She experienced inner turmoil after making the difficult decision.

Examples of usage

  • The loud music was a disturb to the neighbors.
  • The protest caused a disturb in the city.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that constant disturbances can lead to increased stress levels and reduced focus.
  • Children often learn best in a quiet environment; disturbances can hinder their ability to concentrate.
  • Being disturbed during sleep can cause long-term effects on mood and cognitive performance.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, a scene is often considered more dramatic when a character is disturbed during an important moment.
  • Many horror films use the concept of disturbance to create suspense, representing safety being broken.
  • In popular song lyrics, 'disturb' may symbolize heartbreak or emotional chaos.

Literature

  • Classic literature often portrays a character's disturbance as a pivotal moment, leading to personal growth or downfall.
  • In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', the theme of mental disturbance drives the plot and character actions.
  • Modern novels may depict disturbances in everyday life, exploring the impacts on relationships and personal identity.

Science

  • In ecology, a 'disturbance' can be a natural event like a fire or flood that disrupts an ecosystem and changes its structure.
  • Disturbances are often crucial for the health of certain ecosystems, promoting new growth and diversity.
  • Studies in neuroscience suggest disturbances in the brain's activity can lead to various cognitive disorders.

Origin of 'disturb'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'disturbare', which means to throw into disorder.
  • Its first known usage dates back to the early 14th century, originally meaning to upset or disrupt.
  • It evolved over time to include meanings related to causing anxiety or interruption.

The word 'disturb' originated from the Latin word 'disturbare', which meant 'to throw into disorder'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over the years, its meaning has evolved to encompass various forms of interruption, interference, and disruption.

See also: disturbance, disturbed, disturber, disturbing, disturbingly, undisturbed.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,872 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.