become flustered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become flustered" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a state of confusion or agitation, often in response to a stressful situation. Example: "During the presentation, I could see that she began to become flustered when the questions started coming in rapid succession."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He is said to have become flustered and quickly wrapped up the interview.

The Guardian

Sometimes I'd suddenly hear it again as I wrote, and would lose my train of thought or become flustered.

The New Yorker

When faced with an aggressive interview style it can be easy to become flustered and rush your answers.

The Guardian

"Why don't you pass the toothbrush around while I get the toothpaste?" Standing there in front of his classmates, Yomar may have simply become flustered.

The New York Times

It is hard not to become flustered or ramble when an ominous beep is seconds away, said Dr. Jonathan S. Wald, director of patient computing at Partners HealthCare of Boston, which runs Patient Gateway.

The New York Times - Health

Don't become flustered if you say the wrong things.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Driving, he became flustered at four-way stop signs.

The New York Times - Sports

But as soon as I over-heard a remark about "woman drivers", I became flustered.

Independent

Diaz became flustered and waved his middle finger McGregor's way.

The Guardian - Sport

When Hannah asked Weinstein what he was doing, he became flustered and angry, she said.

The New Yorker

Wearing a dark suit and a white shirt, he became flustered at times under cross-examination.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become flustered" to describe a situation where someone is visibly losing their composure due to stress or unexpected events. For instance, "During the intense cross-examination, the witness began to "become flustered" and struggled to maintain a consistent narrative."

Common error

Avoid using "become flustered" when a situation requires a stronger term like "panic" or "despair". "Flustered" implies a temporary loss of composure, not a complete breakdown. For example, instead of saying "He "became flustered" after losing his job", consider "He was devastated after losing his job" if the emotional impact was severe.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become flustered" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a process of transitioning into a state of agitation or confusion. It typically describes a reaction to stress, pressure, or unexpected circumstances. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become flustered" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone entering a state of confusion or agitation, typically in response to stress. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in written English. While alternatives like "get agitated" or "lose composure" exist, "become flustered" holds a neutral register suitable for various contexts. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. Remember to use "become flustered" when describing a temporary loss of composure, and avoid using it when a situation demands a more severe term. Understanding these nuances will help you employ the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get flustered

A slightly more informal and direct synonym.

lose composure

Highlights the loss of self-control and calmness.

lose your cool

An idiomatic expression for losing one's calmness.

get agitated

Focuses more on outward signs of restlessness and irritation.

become rattled

Suggests a feeling of nervousness and agitation.

grow anxious

Emphasizes increasing worry and unease.

become confused

Highlights the mental state of being unclear or disoriented.

crack under pressure

Indicates a failure to maintain composure due to stress.

become disconcerted

Stresses a feeling of being unsettled or disturbed.

become perturbed

Implies a mild state of anxiety or disturbance.

FAQs

How can I use "become flustered" in a sentence?

You can use "become flustered" to describe a state of confusion or agitation in response to a stressful situation. For example: "During the interview, she started to "become flustered" when asked about her weaknesses."

What are some alternatives to "become flustered"?

You can use alternatives like "get agitated", "lose composure", or "become confused" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "become flustered" or "get flustered"?

"Become flustered" and "get flustered" are both acceptable and virtually interchangeable. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What does it mean to "become flustered"?

To "become flustered" means to become confused, agitated, or nervous, especially in a stressful situation. It suggests a temporary loss of composure or self-control.