What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disrupt
Example
The construction noise disrupted my concentration. [disrupted: past tense verb]
Example
The protest disrupted the flow of traffic in the city. [disrupted: past participle adjective]
disturb
Example
Please don't disturb me while I'm studying. [disturb: verb]
Example
The loud music disturbed my sleep last night. [disturbed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturb is more commonly used than disrupt in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Disrupt is more commonly used in technical or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disrupt and disturb?
Disrupt is more formal than disturb, and it is often used in technical or business contexts. Disturb is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
