Disturb: meaning, definitions and examples

Causing worry or anxiety, besides creating inconvenience or annoyance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.