What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
upsetting
Example
The news of the accident was very upsetting. [upsetting: adjective]
Example
It's upsetting to see how much pollution there is in the ocean. [upsetting: gerund or present participle]
Example
The smell from the garbage was very upsetting. [upsetting: adjective]
unsettling
Example
The strange noise in the middle of the night was very unsettling. [unsettling: adjective]
Example
His sudden outburst was very unsettling. [unsettling: gerund or present participle]
Example
Moving to a new city can be very unsettling. [unsettling: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Upsetting is more commonly used than unsettling in everyday language, especially in contexts related to emotions or physical sensations. Unsettling is less common but can be used to describe unexpected or unusual situations or changes.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between upsetting and unsettling?
Both upsetting and unsettling are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation or writing. However, unsettling may be slightly more formal due to its association with unexpected or unusual situations.
