Disturbance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช๏ธ
disturbance
[dษชหstษหrbษns ]
Definitions
mental health
A disturbance refers to a disruption or interruption in the normal functioning of a person's mind or emotions. It can manifest as feelings of anxiety, confusion, agitation, or distress.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| disturbance |
When referring to an interruption or distraction caused by external factors, often with a connotation of trouble or disorder.
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| disruption |
Used to describe a breaking or causing problems in a system, process, or event. Often relates to significant interruptions causing changes.
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| turmoil |
This word is used when referring to a state of great confusion, disorder or uncertainty, often involving emotional unrest.
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| upset |
Usually refers to emotional disturbance, stress, or concern, often of a personal nature. It can also mean a surprising defeat in a competition.
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Examples of usage
- The sudden loss of a loved one can cause a significant disturbance in one's mental health.
- People with post-traumatic stress disorder often experience disturbances in their sleep patterns.
environment
A disturbance can also refer to a disruption in the peace or tranquility of a physical location. It may involve loud noises, commotion, or other factors that create a sense of unrest.
Synonyms
commotion, disruption, turmoil.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| disturbance |
Use 'disturbance' when referring to an unwelcome interruption or minor conflict that affects peace or order in a situation. Typically used in formal or neutral settings.
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| disruption |
Use 'disruption' when something significantly interferes with or interrupts a process, system, or event. Often used in formal or technical contexts.
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| commotion |
Use 'commotion' when referring to a noisy, chaotic situation often involving a group of people. It implies a scene of confusion and can have a slightly informal tone.
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| turmoil |
Use 'turmoil' when describing a state of great confusion, disorder, or uncertainty, often on a large scale. This term has a more serious and ongoing connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The construction work next door caused a disturbance in the neighborhood.
- The party at the apartment created a disturbance for the other residents.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychological contexts, disturbances can refer to disruptions in mental well-being or emotional stability.
- Anxiety disorders often result in disturbances in daily life, affecting routines and relationships.
Science
- In environmental science, disturbances can be natural, like wildfires, or human-made, like deforestation, affecting ecosystems dramatically.
- The study of disturbances in ecology helps scientists understand the resilience of habitats.
Literature
- Disturbance is a common theme in literature, often symbolizing conflict and change in characters' lives.
- In Shakespeareโs plays, characters face various disturbances that challenge their societal norms and personal beliefs.
Pop Culture
- Disturbance has appeared in song lyrics, often symbolizing heartbreak or chaos in relationships.
- Movies frequently depict disturbances as plot devices that drive characters to face their fears or grow.
Origin of 'disturbance'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'disturbare', which means 'to throw into confusion'.
- It entered the English language in the 14th century, reflecting the chaotic times of the medieval period.
The word 'disturbance' originated from the Latin word 'disturbare', which means 'to throw into disorder'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. Over the centuries, its usage has evolved to encompass disruptions in various contexts, from mental health to environmental disturbances.
See also: disturb, disturbed, disturber, disturbing, disturbingly, undisturbed.