Disturbance: meaning, definitions and examples
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disturbance
[dɪˈstɜːrbəns ]
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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 Shakespeare’s 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.
Translations
Translations of the word "disturbance" in other languages:
🇵🇹 perturbação
🇮🇳 व्यवधान
🇩🇪 Störung
🇮🇩 gangguan
🇺🇦 порушення
🇵🇱 zakłócenie
🇯🇵 妨害
🇫🇷 perturbation
🇪🇸 perturbación
🇹🇷 rahatsızlık
🇰🇷 방해
🇸🇦 اضطراب
🇨🇿 narušení
🇸🇰 narušenie
🇨🇳 扰乱
🇸🇮 motnja
🇮🇸 truflun
🇰🇿 бұзылу
🇬🇪 არღვევა
🇦🇿 narahatlıq
🇲🇽 perturbación