become uneasy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become uneasy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a shift in feelings or emotions, typically indicating a growing discomfort or anxiety about a situation. Example: "As the meeting progressed and the topic turned to layoffs, I began to become uneasy about my job security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

But, if it looks too human, people quickly become uneasy and even disgusted.

The New Yorker

J.C.: They are doing all right, though Matt has become uneasy.

The New Yorker

Marr said he had become "uneasy" as a journalist at having obtained it.

The Guardian

As "Inhabit" continues, the stage darkens and the formerly bubbly dancers become uneasy and introverted.

The New York Times - Arts

At the same time, I started to become uneasy; butterflies in my stomach and panic became the norm.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's when players become uneasy, unsure about their role in the team and doubting the coach's ability.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

But as the race progressed, Velazquez became uneasy.

The New York Times - Sports

Faced with my silence, he also became uneasy.

The New Yorker

Chencho Wangdi, our horseman, became uneasy, and humbly requested that we pack up camp and leave.

The New York Times

At first he found it really enjoyable, then he gradually became uneasy and paranoid!

Independent

The College Board became uneasy with that description and changed it to "Scholastic Assessment Test".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become uneasy" to describe a gradual shift from a state of comfort to one of discomfort or anxiety. This construction is particularly effective when detailing the unfolding of events that lead to the feeling.

Common error

Avoid using "become uneasy" to describe an immediate or instantaneous reaction. This phrase suggests a process, so ensure the context reflects a gradual development of unease rather than a sudden shock.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become uneasy" functions as a verb phrase indicating a change in emotional state. It describes the process of developing feelings of discomfort, anxiety, or apprehension, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "become uneasy" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe a gradual onset of feelings of discomfort or anxiety. Ludwig confirms its proper usage and high frequency, primarily within news and media contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the context aligns with the gradual development of unease, and consider alternatives like "feel anxious" or "grow uncomfortable" to add nuance. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a versatile and effective way to express a change in emotional state.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow uncomfortable

Highlights the increasing discomfort in a specific context.

feel anxious

Focuses on the feeling of anxiety as a result of a situation.

become concerned

Highlights the development of worry, interest, or care.

get apprehensive

Conveys a sense of dread or foreboding about a future event.

feel unsettled

Indicates a lack of peace or stability in one's emotional state.

start worrying

Emphasizes the commencement of worry or concern.

develop misgivings

Indicates the gradual emergence of doubts or apprehensions.

start doubting

Emphasizes the beginning of questioning or uncertainty.

feel insecure

Focuses on the feelings of safety or stability.

lose confidence

Implies a reduction or absence of belief in oneself or a situation.

FAQs

What does "become uneasy" mean?

The phrase "become uneasy" describes a gradual development of feelings of anxiety, discomfort, or apprehension. It suggests a shift from a state of calm or comfort to one of unease.

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

You can use "become uneasy" to describe someone's emotional state as a situation unfolds, for instance: "As the meeting progressed, I began to become uneasy about the future of the project."

What can I say instead of "become uneasy"?

You can use alternatives like "feel anxious", "grow uncomfortable", or "start worrying" depending on the context.

Is "becoming uneasy" the same as "become uneasy"?

"Becoming uneasy" is the present participle form, often used to describe an ongoing process. "Become uneasy" is the base form, often used with auxiliary verbs to describe a future or hypothetical shift. Both are grammatically correct, but "becoming uneasy" may emphasize the continuous nature of the feeling.