What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
agitate
Example
She agitated the paint before applying it to the wall. [agitated: verb]
Example
The group plans to agitate for better working conditions. [agitate: verb]
Example
The news of the accident agitated him greatly. [agitated: adjective]
upset
Example
I was upset when I heard the news. [upset: adjective]
Example
The cat upset the vase on the table. [upset: verb]
Example
His decision upset the entire project. [upset: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Upset is more commonly used than agitate in everyday language. Upset is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while agitate is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between agitate and upset?
Both agitate and upset can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but agitate may be more commonly used in formal contexts when referring to advocacy or activism.
