What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unnerved
Example
The loud explosion unnerved the entire neighborhood. [unnerved: past tense verb]
Example
She was unnerved by the dark alley and decided to take a different route. [unnerved: past participle adjective]
unsettle
Example
The news of the impending storm unsettled the entire community. [unsettled: past tense verb]
Example
The strange noises in the house unsettled her and she couldn't sleep. [unsettled: past participle adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unsettle is more commonly used than unnerved in everyday language. Unsettle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unnerved is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unnerved and unsettle?
Unnerved is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while unsettle is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
