Restlessness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone cannot sit still or stay calm, often due to boredom or energy. It may apply to situations that are not necessarily stressful but where there is a desire for movement or change.

• His restlessness grew as the meeting dragged on.
• The child's restlessness made it hard for her to focus on her homework.

This word is suitable for describing a state of nervous excitement or emotional disturbance. It often implies a higher level of emotional response that might be due to stress or conflict.

• She paced back and forth in agitation, waiting for the exam results.
• His agitation was apparent when he heard the unexpected news.

Best used in situations where there is a general feeling of discomfort or worry, often without a specific reason. It can describe both physical discomfort and emotional tension.

• There was a sense of unease in the room after the heated argument.
• Despite the sunny day, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease.

This is used to describe a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It often implies a deeper or more chronic state of concern.

• She felt a surge of anxiety before her job interview.
• His anxiety about the future kept him up at night.

This word fits situations where someone is annoyed or restless due to a delay or prolonged waiting. It implies a lack of willingness to wait calmly.

• Her impatience was clear as she tapped her foot while waiting in line.
• He showed his impatience by frequently checking his watch.

When someone cannot relax or be still, often due to anxiety or excitement.

• She felt a sudden restlessness and decided to go for a walk
• His restlessness made it difficult for him to concentrate on the task

When someone is unhappy or dissatisfied with a situation, often in a broader sense like a job, social status, or quality of life.

• There was a general discontent among the employees due to the low wages
• His discontent with the government policies was evident

Refers to a feeling of unease or worry about something particular, often less intense than restlessness.

• There was a sense of disquiet in the community after the unexpected event
• The disquiet in her voice was noticeable

Used to describe a situation where someone feels physical or emotional unease, pain, or awkwardness.

• The tight shoes caused her significant discomfort
• He expressed discomfort with the topic of conversation

Used to express annoyance or dissatisfaction, often directed at someone or something specific.

• She showed her displeasure by frowning
• The teacher's displeasure was clear when the students didn't do their homework

Use when describing a state of unease or constant movement, often due to anxiety or impatience.

• She felt restlessness on the eve of her big exam
• His restlessness kept him pacing around the room

Use when describing the feeling of being uninterested or having nothing to do.

• His speech was so long that it resulted in boredom for the entire audience
• The students' boredom was evident during the lengthy lecture

Use when describing a lack of physical or mental activity, often implying a state of being idle.

• Inactivity during the lockdown led many people to seek new hobbies
• Prolonged inactivity can have negative effects on your health

Use when describing a lack of growth, movement, or progress, often in a negative or undesirable sense.

• The company faced stagnation due to outdated business strategies
• Economic stagnation can lead to widespread unemployment and dissatisfaction