cause upset

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause upset" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to describe the act of making someone feel distressed, angry, or discontented. For example, "He always says the wrong thing and it causes a lot of upset in the office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Three things happen in old age That always cause upset.

The New York Times

I truly didn't mean to cause upset or tension particularly with important games at stake".

The Guardian - Sport

It is not the first Hollywood production to cause upset in Iran.

The Guardian

I did not intend to cause upset and they were in no way my personal views or the BBC's".

Independent

But I think it's important that if we over step the mark and cause upset that we apologise".

Independent

"I think it's important that if we overstep the mark and cause upset that we apologise," he said.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

"However, we believe we can cause upsets at home".

The New York Times

Unexpected Williams lapses are probably the only things which might cause upsets.

The Guardian - Sport

But it caused upset".

The Guardian - Music

Naming the horse in this sensitive way has caused upset.

Independent

So there is room to accommodate them without causing upset," said Kinahan.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause upset", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the degree of emotional or practical disturbance. Choose synonyms if a more specific nuance is required.

Common error

In formal or professional contexts, avoid overusing the phrase "cause upset". Opt for more precise alternatives like "trigger concern", "generate discontent", or "provoke unrest" /s/provoke+unrest to convey specific nuances and maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause upset" functions as a verb phrase, where "cause" acts as the verb and "upset" functions as its direct object. The phrase describes the action of initiating a state of distress or disturbance. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cause upset" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of initiating a state of emotional distress or disturbance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Analysis of the example sentences reveals its frequent use in contexts such as news reports, scientific articles, and general discussions on WikiHow. While it's a versatile phrase, consider using more specific alternatives like "trigger distress" /s/trigger+distress or "provoke unrest" /s/provoke+unrest in formal writing to convey precise nuances. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the degree of emotional or practical disturbance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create disturbance

This alternative focuses on the creation of any kind of disturbance, not necessarily emotional.

trigger distress

This alternative highlights the act of initiating or setting off a state of severe emotional suffering.

provoke unrest

This phrase suggests causing a more widespread or public form of upset or discontent.

generate discontent

This alternative emphasizes the creation of dissatisfaction or unhappiness.

stir up trouble

This idiom implies causing disruption or problems, often intentionally.

spark outrage

This indicates causing a sudden and intense feeling of anger or shock.

foment discord

This phrase suggests actively encouraging disagreement or conflict.

breed resentment

This suggests gradually causing a feeling of bitterness and anger.

inflict pain

This phrase shifts the focus to the act of causing suffering, whether emotional or physical.

precipitate anguish

This alternative implies a sudden and severe onset of extreme suffering.

FAQs

How can I use "cause upset" in a sentence?

You can use "cause upset" to describe something that makes someone feel worried, unhappy, or angry. For example, "His comments caused a lot of upset in the meeting."

What can I say instead of "cause upset"?

You can use alternatives like "trigger distress" /s/trigger+distress, "generate discontent", or "provoke unrest" /s/provoke+unrest depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "cause upset" or "causing upset"?

"Cause upset" is typically used in a general sense, while "causing upset" refers to an ongoing action. For example, "That decision will cause upset" versus "His behavior is causing upset".

What's the difference between "cause upset" and "cause problems"?

"Cause upset" typically relates to emotional distress or unease, whereas "cause problems" refers to practical difficulties or issues. The former is about feelings, while the latter is about tangible issues.