# disturb

/dɪˈstɝb/ (US) · /dɪstˈɜːb/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disturb
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to interrupt someone

verb · CEFR B2

to interrupt someone when they are busy, sleeping, or need to be alone.

For teachers: to interrupt a person's rest, privacy, or concentration. Transitive — takes a direct object.

- Please do not disturb the baby while she is taking her nap.
- The sign on the door requested that guests not disturb the meeting while the final negotiations were in progress.

Usage: Often used in the passive voice or as a polite request.

### 2. to move or change something

verb · CEFR B2

to move something from its usual position or to change a quiet situation.

For teachers: to interfere with the settled state or position of something. Transitive — takes a direct object.

- The archaeologists were careful not to disturb the ancient bones in the grave.
- Even a slight breeze can disturb the surface of the lake, ruining the perfect reflection of the mountains.

Usage: Commonly used in scientific or technical contexts regarding physical states.

### 3. to make someone worried

verb · CEFR B2

to make someone feel worried, upset, or uncomfortable.

For teachers: to cause emotional distress or mental unease. Transitive — takes a direct object.

- The news about the accident disturbed her deeply for the rest of the day.
- The graphic nature of the documentary disturbed many viewers, leading to several formal complaints to the network.

## Examples

- Please do not disturb me while I am working.
- The loud construction noise outside began to disturb the students during their final exam.
- The sudden introduction of a new predator can disturb the delicate balance of an ecosystem, leading to the decline of several native species.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.