C1verbemotionspsychology
US/ʌnˈset.əl/
UK/ʌnˈset.əl/
to make someone feel worried, nervous or uncomfortable
In context
The strange noises in the night began to unsettle the children.
Moving to a new school can unsettle even confident teenagers.
The sudden change of plan unsettled him, and he could not concentrate all day.
Words that go with unsettle
verb + noun
- unsettle the marketsRumors of a bank failure can unsettle the markets.
- unsettle votersThe scandal could unsettle voters before the election.
- unsettle a childConstant arguments at home can unsettle a child.
- unsettle the balanceThe new rule may unsettle the balance of power.
adverb + verb
- deeply unsettleThe news deeply unsettled her family.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I was unsettle by the news.Correct: I was unsettled by the news.