What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disturbing
Example
The news of the accident was very disturbing. [disturbing: adjective]
Example
The loud noise from the construction site was disturbing my concentration. [disturbing: present participle]
troubling
Example
The recent increase in crime rates is troubling. [troubling: adjective]
Example
I find it troubling that he hasn't returned my calls. [troubling: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturbing and troubling are both commonly used in everyday language, but disturbing is more frequently used in contexts that involve moral or ethical issues, while troubling can be used in a wider range of situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between disturbing and troubling?
Both disturbing and troubling can be used in formal and informal contexts, but disturbing may be perceived as more formal or serious due to its stronger emotional connotation.
