What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alarmed
Example
She was alarmed by the loud noise coming from the kitchen. [alarmed: adjective]
Example
The news of the accident alarmed everyone in the office. [alarmed: verb]
disturb
Example
Please do not disturb me while I am working. [disturb: verb]
Example
The loud music disturbed the neighbors and caused complaints. [disturbed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturb is more commonly used than alarmed in everyday language. Disturb is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while alarmed is less common and is typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alarmed and disturb?
Alarmed is typically associated with a formal tone, while disturb is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.