a bit of restlessness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of restlessness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a slight feeling of unease or agitation, often in a context where someone is unable to relax or is feeling fidgety. Example: "After sitting in the meeting for hours, I felt a bit of restlessness and needed to stretch my legs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Boredom is often defined as a state of dissatisfaction with the dullness of a situation – usually with a bit of restlessness and fatigue.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Feeling a bit of intellectual restlessness after a few years in the host's chair, though, Mr. Soares came up with an idea for what he thought might make an amusing novel.

The New York Times - Arts

You can see him simmering quietly -- nothing indicating his rage except, perhaps, a slight downward turn at the corners of his mouth and a bit of extra restlessness in his darting eyes -- and then, with breathtaking suddenness, he takes action.

The New York Times

"Knowing that Parker and Stone have been experiencing a bit of an existential crisis or even just restlessness definitely made tonight seem unusually thematically heavy," remarked Sean O'Neal of The A.V. Club.

Wikipedia

The gong with which Goldstein's meditations begin on YouTube, though a bit of Orientalia, does settle the mind and calm its restlessness.

The New Yorker

I happened to catch Obama at a moment of restlessness.

The New Yorker

A bit of hope.

The New York Times - Sports

A bit of decorum.

The New Yorker

A bit of both.

The New York Times - Sports

A bit of intrigue.

The New York Times

A bit of vanity.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's internal state, use "a bit of restlessness" to subtly convey their unease or dissatisfaction without resorting to stronger terms like 'anxiety' or 'agitation'.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit of restlessness" excessively in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for more precise and formal language to describe the specific feeling or state of unease.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit of restlessness" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement within a sentence. It describes a state or feeling, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples where it modifies verbs like 'feel' or describes a general condition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bit of restlessness" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a mild state of unease or agitation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and usability, though its frequency is relatively low. While suitable for various contexts, including news and general writing, more formal settings might benefit from more precise alternatives. The phrase effectively conveys a subtle sense of discomfort or a need for change, making it a valuable tool for nuanced expression. Understanding its register and purpose allows writers to use it effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a touch of unease

Focuses more on the feeling of unease rather than physical agitation.

a hint of agitation

Emphasizes the agitation aspect, suggesting a slight disturbance.

a degree of anxiety

Shifts the focus to anxiety, implying a more mental or emotional state.

a slight disquiet

Highlights the lack of peace and tranquility.

a shade of nervousness

Points out to the nervous component of restlessness

a fleeting unease

Emphasizes the transient nature of the feeling.

a tremor of disquiet

Metaphorically connects the feeling with a physical tremor, suggesting instability.

a flutter of anticipation

Focuses on the anticipatory aspect, potentially positive or negative.

a shadow of impatience

Emphasizes the impatience aspect, suggesting frustration with waiting.

a whiff of anxiety

Uses 'whiff' metaphorically indicating a very slight and brief experience of anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit of restlessness" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit of restlessness" to describe a feeling of unease or inability to relax, such as, "After sitting through the long lecture, I started to feel "a bit of restlessness"."

What's a good alternative to "a bit of restlessness"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a touch of unease", "a hint of agitation", or "slight disquiet" as alternatives to "a bit of restlessness".

Is it appropriate to use "a bit of restlessness" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a bit of restlessness" might be considered too informal for certain types of formal writing. In such cases, consider more precise and professional alternatives like "a degree of anxiety" or "slight unease".

How does "a bit of restlessness" differ from "anxiety"?

"A bit of restlessness" implies a milder and more transient feeling compared to "anxiety", which suggests a more persistent and intense state of worry or unease.