a state of unrest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a state of unrest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation characterized by turmoil, agitation, or instability, often in a social or political context. Example: "The country has been experiencing a state of unrest due to ongoing protests and civil disobedience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Scotland are in a state of unrest.

Independent

Thereafter, Hunan remained in a state of unrest from which it had little respite until 1949, when the People's Republic of China was established.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With England in a state of unrest, he must leave his rebellious youth behind, striving to gain the respect of his nobility and people.

Independent

Lennon did not want his players to be remembered for beating the Spanish side only to then fail to progress from Group G. Spartak were obliging visitors, since they arrived in a state of unrest.

Independent

In the fall, Zemel, a contemplative 62-year-old with horn-rimmed glasses, a bushy mustache and a bald dome from which his skullcap incessantly slips, stood before his congregation in a state of unrest.

The New York Times - Magazine

Congress adjourned on the afternoon of Friday, June 20 , 1783 "as was their custom," but Philadelphia was in a state of unrest as soldiers described as "mutineers" had been gathering in the city for days to demand back pay for their service during the war.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

When he returned from Italy, Mommsen found his country in a state of mounting unrest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Instead, Hodges said, Putin is content with keeping Ukraine "bubbling" in a state of constant unrest.

The Washington Post

During that time Poland was in a state of political unrest, with active opposition to King Bolesław II the Bold.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It takes time, and some effort, to adjust to the new tempo, and the sensation that we are observing a state of mental unrest seems confirmed.

The New Yorker

What keeps them hovering there is a radically fluid arrangement of space, devised by Chiat and Pesce to keep the firm in a state of creative unrest.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing political or social situations, use "a state of unrest" to accurately convey widespread dissatisfaction or turmoil.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "a state of unrest" in casual conversation or informal writing might sound overly formal or dramatic. Consider simpler alternatives like "things are unsettled" or "there's tension in the air."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a state of unrest" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a condition or situation characterized by disturbance, agitation, or turmoil. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a state of unrest" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that effectively describes a situation characterized by turmoil, agitation, or instability. According to Ludwig AI, this expression is appropriate for formal writing and carries a neutral to formal tone. Usage patterns show it's most frequently found in news and media, scientific articles, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "a condition of turmoil" or "a time of upheaval" exist, "a state of unrest" is a direct and impactful way to convey a sense of widespread unease or disturbance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a condition of turmoil

Emphasizes the chaotic and disturbed nature of the situation.

a period of agitation

Highlights the active and often public expression of discontent.

a time of upheaval

Focuses on significant and disruptive change.

a climate of instability

Suggests a lack of security and predictability.

a scene of discord

Highlights disagreement and conflict.

a moment of turbulence

Emphasizes the chaotic nature of the situation.

a season of disquiet

Indicates worry and anxiety about a situation.

a wave of discontent

Implies a widespread feeling of dissatisfaction.

an atmosphere of agitation

Focuses on collective excitement or anxiety.

a background of tension

Suggests latent conflict and potential for escalation.

FAQs

How can I use "a state of unrest" in a sentence?

You can use "a state of unrest" to describe situations with widespread agitation or turmoil, such as, "The country is in "a state of unrest" due to the new economic policies."

What are some alternatives to "a state of unrest"?

Alternatives include "a condition of turmoil", "a period of agitation", or "a time of upheaval", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a state of unrest" in formal writing?

Yes, "a state of unrest" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing political, social, or economic situations marked by significant disturbance or agitation.

What's the difference between "a state of unrest" and "a state of emergency"?

"A state of unrest" describes a condition of agitation and potential disorder, while "a state of emergency" is a specific declaration by a government that grants it special powers to deal with a crisis.