Word
unsettled
Phoneticsun·set·tled, stress on the second syllable
US/ənˈsɛtəɫd/
UK/ʌnsˈɛtəld/
Definition
adj. feeling worried, nervous, or not quite right. You use this when something makes you feel less calm or safe than before.
adj. characterised by a lack of stability, calm, or certainty. Often describes a psychological state of anxiety or a physical environment that is prone to change.
Examples
“The strange news left her feeling very unsettled.”
“The stock market remained unsettled throughout the week as investors waited for the latest inflation data.”
“The sudden departure of the CEO created an unsettled atmosphere within the company, leading many senior staff members to reconsider their long-term commitment to the firm.”
Examples
simple
“The strange news left her feeling very unsettled.”
contextual
“The stock market remained unsettled throughout the week as investors waited for the latest inflation data.”
complex
“The sudden departure of the CEO created an unsettled atmosphere within the company, leading many senior staff members to reconsider their long-term commitment to the firm.”
Usage
Commonly follows linking verbs such as 'feel', 'seem', or 'remain'.
Real-World Examples
“As well as turning more unsettled in the coming days, the area of low pressure which is bringing the showers will also shepherd in some much cooler air from the Arctic.” “However, through this week high pressure will be replaced by the influence of low pressure and more unsettled conditions.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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