Uneasy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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uneasy
[ʌnˈiːzi ]
Definition
feeling
Not comfortable or secure; anxious or unsure.
Synonyms
anxious, nervous, uncomfortable, uneven, unsettled.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| uneasy |
Used to describe a feeling of discomfort or worry about a situation. Often occurs when one is unsure about the outcome or the intentions of others.
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| nervous |
Refers to a feeling of worry or apprehension, usually in response to a specific event or situation. Can also imply physical symptoms like sweating or shaking.
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| uncomfortable |
Describes a physical or emotional state where one does not feel at ease. This can be due to physical circumstances or awkward interactions.
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| anxious |
Describes a state of worry or fear, often about a future event or outcome. This word can also imply eagerness, but mainly in situations of concern.
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| unsettled |
Indicates a state of instability or lack of resolution, often causing discomfort or worry. Can refer to emotions, weather, or general situations.
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| uneven |
Typically used to describe a lack of uniformity or balance, either in physical objects, surfaces, or metaphorically in situations and performances.
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Examples of usage
- I felt uneasy about leaving my car in the parking lot overnight.
- She had an uneasy feeling that something was wrong.
- The tense atmosphere made everyone feel uneasy.
- His uneasy expression gave away his nervousness.
- The uneasy silence in the room made it clear that something was not right.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling uneasy can trigger the body's stress response, preparing individuals to react to perceived threats.
- People may experience unease in social situations, often linking to social anxiety or fear of judgment.
- A sense of unease can sometimes serve as a protective mechanism, alerting individuals to dangerous or uncertain environments.
Literature
- Many authors explore themes of unease to create tension, particularly in horror and thriller genres, where characters often confront unknown threats.
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters frequently express feelings of unease before critical turning points, foreshadowing conflict or treachery.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict characters feeling uneasy before a major plot twist or revelation, increasing viewer suspense.
- Unease is commonly used in music, particularly in genres like rock and blues, where lyrics can encapsulate feelings of anxiety and discomfort.
Philosophy
- Existential philosophers often discuss unease in the context of human existence, reflecting on life's uncertainties.
- Unease is linked to the concept of 'angst,' particularly in existential thought, highlighting the human struggle with meaning and purpose.
Origin of 'uneasy'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in Old English, where 'un-' means 'not' and 'easy' refers to being free from worry.
- The term has been used in the English language since the 14th century, evolving from meaning 'not easy' to its current sense of discomfort.
The word 'uneasy' originated in the late Middle English period, derived from the combination of 'un-' (meaning 'not') and 'easy'. It has been used in English literature to describe a state of discomfort or anxiety for centuries, capturing the feeling of being ill at ease or uncertain. Over time, 'uneasy' has become a commonly used adjective to convey a sense of unease or discomfort in various contexts.