What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unnerve
Example
The loud noise from the explosion unnerved the entire neighborhood. [unnerved: past tense]
Example
The thought of speaking in front of a large audience always unnerves me. [unnerves: present tense]
disturb
Example
The loud music from the party next door disturbed my sleep. [disturbed: past tense]
Example
The news of the accident disturbed her greatly. [disturbed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturb is more commonly used than unnerve in everyday language. Disturb is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unnerve is less common and typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unnerve and disturb?
Unnerve is more formal than disturb and is typically used in more serious or alarming situations. Disturb can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
