Agitation

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "Agitation" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a state of nervousness, anxiety, or unrest. Example: "Her agitation was evident as she waited for the results." Alternative expressions include "disturbance" and "anxiety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is now abundantly clear that those issues are being manipulated by darker forces intent on agitation.

The Guardian - Opinion

The manager has repeated his agitation with the bankers who have a firm grip on Rangers' financial affairs.

The Guardian - Sport

This time, however, their anxieties have a different texture, and are best understood in the context of ongoing republican and nationalist agitation as well as concerns about the very existence of the union.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It doesn't taste of anything," protests the 27-year-old Turner, the carefully coiffed curl at the front of his quiff shaking slightly with agitation.

The Guardian - Music

Thanks to Walker's agitation, the burial problem would receive detailed parliamentary scrutiny.

The Guardian

There's more agitation for the 24-year-old singer, songwriter, poet, dramatist, actor and annoyingly nice over-achiever: he and his band failed to secure visas for this visit so opted not to bring any of their gear, lest they arouse the suspicion of US immigration.

The Guardian - Music

She told Judge Jonathan Teale: "Their honourable and decent motives perhaps might be contrasted with what we now know about the long-term deployment of undercover police officers, one of whom acted on the 'extreme boundary of legality', if not decency, if the reports of agitation and so on across Europe are to be believed.

The Guardian

Nato's plans would need to include not just conventional forces, he added, but countering "political agitation and subversion, cyber-attack, hostile propaganda and other destabilising effects".

The Guardian

The pro-Israel lobby lives in permanent nervous agitation.

The Guardian - Opinion

The scene reminded me of Mark Philippoussis's nervous agitation as he stood next to Roger Federer before they both walked on to centre court for the 2003 Wimbledon final.

The Guardian - Sport

It's clear it's their first time at Brookvale, and they're sort of expecting it to be another world, perhaps with agitation.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing emotional states, consider the intensity and context. "Agitation" implies a notable level of disturbance beyond simple nervousness or excitement.

Common error

Avoid using "agitation" when a milder term like "concern" or "unease" would be more appropriate. "Agitation" suggests a significant level of distress or disturbance.

Linguistic Context

The word "Agitation" primarily functions as a noun. It denotes a state of disturbance, excitement, or unrest, either in an individual's emotions or in a broader social or political context. The Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showcasing examples in various scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

21%

Less common in

Science

21%

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

22%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Agitation" is a noun commonly used to describe a state of disturbance, whether emotional or political. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, formal business writing and science. While grammatically correct and widely used, it's important to consider the intensity of the situation when choosing this term; milder situations might warrant alternatives like "concern" or "unease". Consider alternatives such as "unrest", "turmoil", or "excitement" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unrest

Focuses more on general societal disturbance rather than individual emotional turmoil.

Turmoil

Emphasizes a state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.

Excitement

Refers to a state of aroused enthusiasm or eagerness, often positive.

Commotion

Indicates noisy activity or confusion, often in a public setting.

Perturbation

Suggests a state of anxiety or mental uneasiness.

Upheaval

Describes a sudden and violent disruption or change.

Ferment

Signifies a state of political or social unrest or excitement.

Disturbance

Indicates an interruption of peace or quiet; a disruption.

Emotion

It's a broader term referring to strong feelings.

Trepidation

Highlights a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen.

FAQs

How can I use "Agitation" in a sentence?

"Agitation" can be used to describe emotional unrest, political or social disturbance, or physical shaking. For example, "The news caused great "agitation" among the public" or "His "agitation" was visible as he paced the room".

What are some synonyms for "Agitation"?

Synonyms for "Agitation" include "unrest", "turmoil", "excitement", and "commotion". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "Agitation" and "Anxiety"?

"Agitation" refers more to visible restlessness or disturbance, while "anxiety" is a broader term encompassing worry and unease, which may or may not be outwardly apparent. "Agitation" is often a symptom of "anxiety".

In what contexts is "Agitation" most appropriately used?

"Agitation" is appropriate when describing situations involving visible restlessness, public disturbance, or strong emotional upset. It suits contexts where there's notable emotional or political "unrest".