Fuss: meaning, definitions and examples

Fuss is typically used to describe a minor brouhaha or unnecessarily busy activity over something trivial. It often implies a degree of annoyance or needless attention to small details.

• All this fuss over a missing paperclip is ridiculous
• She can't stand the fuss of planning a big party

Commotion generally refers to a state of confused and noisy disturbance. It can be used in situations involving a lot of movement and noise, often involving multiple people.

• There was a commotion outside the building when the fire alarm went off
• The commotion in the classroom was distracting

Uproar is used to describe a situation of loud noise and chaos, often because people are angry or excited. It is typically more intense than 'commotion'.

• The controversial announcement caused an uproar among the citizens
• There was an uproar in the stadium when the home team scored the winning goal

Hullabaloo describes a loud noise or uproar, often caused by people who are excited or angry. It is somewhat informal and often used humorously.

• There was quite a hullabaloo when the news broke
• The kids caused a hullabaloo when they saw the ice cream truck

Used when someone is overly concerned or busy with small, unimportant details. Often associated with trivial matter or unnecessary concern.

• She always makes such a fuss about her hair.
• Don't fuss over the little things, it will be fine.

A general term for anxiety or concern about potential problems or future events. It can be used for both small and significant concerns.

• He began to worry about the upcoming job interview.
• Parents often worry when their children are sick.

A mild form of worry, often about something that might happen or isn't happening fast enough. It implies nervousness or unease.

• Don't fret about the test results, you'll know soon enough.
• She tends to fret over small mistakes.

Involves extreme worry, usually on more pressing, important, or severe matters. It suggests prolonged and intense mental struggle or suffering.

• He would agonize for days over whether he made the right decision.
• She agonized over the loss of a loved one.