Upset: meaning, definitions and examples

This can be used in a variety of situations where someone is generally troubled or disturbed, often by something unexpected.

• She was upset when she found out she didn't get the job.
• The bad news about the project made him upset.

This is used for situations where someone is experiencing severe anxiety, worry, or pain.

• He was distressed by the news of the accident.
• The child's crying made her mother feel distressed.

This is fitting when expressing mild to moderate sorrow or grief over something unfortunate.

• We were saddened to hear about her passing.
• The poor living conditions in the city saddened him.

Use this when describing someone who has lost hope or enthusiasm due to difficulties or setbacks.

• The team was disheartened after consecutive losses.
• She felt disheartened by the lack of progress in her work.

This is appropriate when someone feels let down because their expectations were not met.

• I was disappointed with my test results.
• He was disappointed when the event was cancelled.

Commonly used to describe someone who is unhappy or disappointed, often because of a specific event or situation.

• She was upset after hearing the bad news.
• I'm really upset about the argument we had.

Strong emotional discomfort, usually implying that the person is deeply troubled or distressed, often to the point of being unable to think or act properly.

• She was distraught after the sudden loss of her friend.
• He was too distraught to speak.

More intense than 'upset', often indicating a state of nervousness or anxiety, typically due to external pressure or internal stress.

• He was clearly agitated during the meeting.
• The dog became agitated when it heard the thunder.

Typically used to describe someone who is experiencing emotional or mental difficulties, often over a prolonged period.

• He had a troubled childhood.
• The community is troubled by increasing crime rates.

Describes a state of being slightly disturbed or worried, often in a more formal or intellectual context.

• She was perturbed by the strange noises at night.
• The professor seemed perturbed by the student's question.

When someone feels sad, disappointed, or troubled due to an unexpected or unpleasant event.

• She was upset after hearing the bad news.
• The argument with her friend really upset her.

When someone or something is interrupted or caused minor anxiety. Can also refer to physical or mental peace being broken.

• Please do not disturb the baby while she is sleeping.
• The unexpected noise disturbed my concentration.

When someone feels uneasy or uncertain, often due to a change or something unpredictable.

• The sudden change in plans unsettled her.
• The creepy movie scene unsettled the audience.

When something is broken, interrupted, or thrown into disorder, often referring to systems, activities, or events.

• The train service was disrupted by the snowstorm.
• The phone call disrupted the important meeting.

When someone is made anxious, nervous, or stirred up emotionally. Often implies a stronger emotional reaction.

• Seeing the news about the disaster agitated him.
• The loud noises from the construction site agitated the residents.