What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unsettling
Example
The news of the earthquake was very unsettling. [unsettling: adjective]
Example
The unsettling feeling in the room made me want to leave. [unsettling: noun]
disturbing
Example
The movie had some disturbing scenes that I couldn't watch. [disturbing: adjective]
Example
The loud noise from the construction site was very disturbing. [disturbing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disturbing is more commonly used than unsettling in everyday language. Disturbing is often used to describe something that is offensive or inappropriate, while unsettling is less common and refers to something that is unexpected or challenging.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unsettling and disturbing?
Both unsettling and disturbing can be used in formal and informal contexts, but disturbing is often associated with a more serious and severe tone.
