upset Definition
- 1to make someone unhappy, worried, or angry
- 2to cause an unpleasant physical sensation
- 3to defeat someone who was expected to win
Using upset: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "upset" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The news of the accident upset her.
Example
The bumpy ride upset my stomach.
Example
The underdog team upset the reigning champions.
Example
Don't upset yourself over such a small matter.
upset Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using upset
Example
The new regulations upset the balance of power in the industry.
Example
The new government promised to upset the status quo and bring about real change.
Example
The last-minute changes to the project really upset the applecart for the team.
Phrases with upset
Example
She was upset when she heard the news.
Example
He gets upset easily when things don't go his way.
Example
His sudden resignation really upset the apple cart for the company.
Origins of upset
from Old English 'upsettan', meaning 'to overturn'
Summary: upset in Brief
The verb 'upset' [ʌpˈsɛt] means to make someone unhappy, worried, or angry, or to cause an unpleasant physical sensation. It can also mean to defeat someone who was expected to win. Examples include 'The news of the accident upset her,' and 'The underdog team upset the reigning champions.' Phrases like 'upset the apple cart' denote causing trouble or upsetting plans.