disturbing noises

USAGE SUMMARY

"disturbing noises" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to noises that are making you feel uneasy or uncomfortable. For example: "I tried to fall asleep but was kept awake by the disturbing noises outside my window."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"People often talk of how noisy big cities are, but they usually mean unpleasant, disturbing noises," Gauld continued.

The New Yorker

A shareholder in our co-op is having a problem with an upstairs neighbor whom he accuses of constantly makes disturbing noises.

The New York Times

A woman was recently murdered at a yoga clothing store in Maryland while employees at the Apple Store next door heard the disturbing noises but did not investigate.

The New York Times

A "Most proprietary leases include house rules prohibiting disturbing noises in the building," said Kenneth Jacobs, a co-op lawyer with offices in Yonkers and Manhattan.

The New York Times

Co-ops, like prep-school dormitories, have house rules: at 1016 Fifth, children are not allowed in the service elevator, servants are not allowed in the passenger elevator, and "no lessee shall make or permit any disturbing noises".

The New Yorker

They Were Wrong was dark and dense, filled with disturbing noises, ungodly howls and, on the creepy Hold Hands and It Will Happen Again, Andrew chanting "Cry, cry, fry up in your eye" as if he's reciting an evil incantation.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

It's a scene of disturbing noise and visual chaos, a snapshot of Myun-ga's worldview and perhaps Gu-nam's fate, as some dogs wildly lunge at one another, straining at their leashes, while others sit in cages, some presumably awaiting their culinary fate.

The New York Times

Ditto the fiery moto perpetuo the whole ensemble creates in unison in the middle of the piece, or the waves of strange repeated chords that pass through the music near the end – a weirdly disturbing noise that's both static yet full of energy?

The Guardian - Music

Squeal noise is very often the most disturbing noise source of railway systems in older cities.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Consequently, the proposed fusion filter shows robustness against model uncertainty, temporary disturbing noise, large initial estimation error, etc.

Automatica

This lead to switching frequencies in the range of 1 5 kHz, which produced disturbing noise in the audible band.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the impact of "disturbing noises", be specific about the source and the emotional or physical reaction they provoke. For example, instead of saying 'the disturbing noises kept me awake', try 'the disturbing noises of the construction site kept me awake with their constant hammering'.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "disturbing noises" as a general descriptor. Providing specific details about the type of noise and its source creates a more vivid and impactful description. For instance, instead of just stating 'I heard disturbing noises', specify 'I heard the disturbing noises of breaking glass and frantic shouting'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disturbing noises" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "disturbing" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "noises". It identifies sounds that cause distress or unease. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

56%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "disturbing noises" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe sounds that cause unease or disruption. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's commonly found in news reports and scientific contexts. While generally neutral in tone, specifying the type of noise and its effect can enhance clarity and impact. Alternatives include "unsettling sounds" and "alarming sounds", each with subtle differences in connotation. Understanding these nuances can help writers choose the most appropriate language for their specific purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsettling sounds

Replaces 'noises' with 'sounds' and 'disturbing' with 'unsettling', emphasizing the unsettling quality.

alarming sounds

Substitutes 'disturbing' with 'alarming', highlighting the potential danger or threat implied by the noises.

frightening sounds

Replaces 'disturbing' with 'frightening', focusing on the fear-inducing aspect of the sounds.

unnerving sounds

Similar to 'unsettling sounds', but with a stronger emphasis on causing nervousness.

troubling sounds

Replaces 'disturbing' with 'troubling', suggesting the sounds are a cause for concern.

irritating sounds

Shifts the focus to the annoying nature of the noises, rather than their disturbing quality.

disruptive sounds

Highlights the way the noises interrupt or disturb normal activity.

annoying sounds

Similar to 'irritating sounds', but with a more general sense of annoyance.

disconcerting sounds

Emphasizes the confusing or unsettling nature of the sounds.

distracting sounds

Focuses on the ability of the noises to divert attention.

FAQs

How can I use "disturbing noises" in a sentence?

You can use "disturbing noises" to describe sounds that cause unease, anxiety, or disruption. For example, "The abandoned house emitted a series of "disturbing noises" that frightened the neighborhood children".

What are some alternatives to "disturbing noises"?

Some alternatives include "unsettling sounds", "alarming sounds", or "frightening sounds" depending on the specific context and intended emotion.

What's the difference between "disturbing noises" and "annoying noises"?

"Disturbing noises" generally evoke feelings of unease, anxiety, or fear. On the other hand, "annoying noises" primarily cause irritation or frustration. The distinction lies in the intensity and nature of the emotional response.

Is it correct to use "disturbing noises" in formal writing?

Yes, "disturbing noises" is appropriate for formal writing, as it is grammatically correct and widely understood. However, consider providing specific details about the noises to enhance clarity and impact.