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Unnerving - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Unnerving describes something that causes discomfort, anxiety, or a loss of confidence. It often refers to situations, actions, or behaviors that make people feel uneasy or unsettled.

unnerving

/ʌnˈnɜrvɪŋ/ /ʌnˈnɜːvɪŋ/

Definition:

Causing someone to lose courage or confidence; unsettling or disturbing.

Synonyms:

unsettling, disturbing, disconcerting, intimidating

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

reassuring, calming

Common Collocations:

unnerving silence, unnerving experience, unnerving stare

Derivatives:

unnerve, unnerved

Usage Tips:

Use "unnerving" to describe situations or behaviors that make people feel uneasy or anxious.

Common Phrases:

unnerving feeling, unnerving presence, unnerving effect

Etymology:

Derived from "nerve" (courage) with prefix "un-" (not) and suffix "-ing," meaning causing loss of courage.

Examples:

  • 1. The sudden noise was unnerving in the dark alley.
  • 2. Her intense gaze was unnerving during the interview.
  • 3. The eerie silence in the house felt unnerving.
  • 4. He found the roller coaster’s speed unnerving but exciting.

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