Synonyms for

Disturbing

Verb / dɪˈstɜ:bɪŋ / Another word for disturbing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Causing anxiety, unease, or discomfort.

Synonyms & similar words

agitate worrisome trouble disturb upset raiseup perturbing commove stirup shakeup touch interrupt distressing troubling worrying vex distressful upsetting unsettling troubling disquieting alarming frightening terrifying scary horrifying shocking offensive disgusting revolting repulsive nauseating abhorrent grotesque gruesome macabre morbid

Synonyms by register

Formal

unsettling alarming troubling disquieting

Informal

creepy weird freaky messed up

Literary

perturbing discomposing vexing

Antonyms

calming soothing peaceful comforting reassuring tranquil

Common collocations

  • deeply disturbing
  • truly disturbing
  • disturbing trend
  • disturbing news
  • disturbing images
  • disturbing behavior
  • disturbing evidence

Word family

noun disturbance
verb disturb
adjective disturbing
adverb disturbingly

Usage note

This word describes something that causes anxiety or unease. It is often used to describe events, images, or news that are shocking or upsetting.

Example sentences

  1. The loud noise was very disturbing to the baby.
  2. The news about the hurricane was disturbing.
  3. The horror movie was too disturbing for me to watch.
  4. The teacher found the student's behavior in class to be disturbing.
  5. The disturbing images on the news made me feel uneasy.

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