make him uncomfortable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make him uncomfortable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an action or situation that causes someone to feel uneasy or distressed. Example: "His comments during the meeting were intended to make him uncomfortable and challenge his views."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Two questions, however, make him uncomfortable.

The Economist

I kept sitting just to make him uncomfortable.

The New Yorker

"I think he murdered my brother, and I'll do everything I can to make him uncomfortable".

The New Yorker

So I can see that many cities must now make him uncomfortable.

The Guardian - Opinion

John G. Robinson, vice president of international conservation, admits zoos make him uncomfortable.

The New York Times

Springer was on a mission to pitch inside to Bonds and make him uncomfortable.

The New York Times - Sports

The idea, McGirt said, "is to make him uncomfortable; don't let him fight his fight".

The New York Times - Sports

"Every time I brought Ben something I thought would make him uncomfortable, the reaction was always: 'Go for it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

It made him uncomfortable.

The New Yorker

The question makes him uncomfortable.

Independent

"It just made him uncomfortable".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "make him uncomfortable", consider the level of discomfort you intend to convey. Alternatives like "cause him unease" or "rattle his cage" can adjust the intensity.

Common error

Avoid using "make him uncomfortable" when a stronger phrase like "cause distress" is more accurate. Overstating the discomfort can weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make him uncomfortable" functions as a verb phrase, with "make" as the main verb and "uncomfortable" acting as an adjective describing the state being induced. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make him uncomfortable" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe causing someone to feel uneasy or distressed. Ludwig AI indicates its widespread usability, particularly in News & Media. When choosing this phrase, consider the specific level of discomfort you wish to convey and explore alternatives like "cause him unease" or "put him on edge" for nuanced expression. Avoid overstating the discomfort to maintain accuracy and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make him feel awkward

Specific to social discomfort or embarrassment.

cause him unease

Focuses on the feeling of unease rather than the action of making someone uncomfortable.

put him on edge

Highlights the heightened state of anxiety or tension in the person.

make him anxious

Focuses specifically on inducing anxiety.

rattle his cage

Implies a more aggressive form of discomfort, suggesting disruption or annoyance.

disrupt his peace

Emphasizes the disturbance of someone's tranquility or calmness.

inflict discomfort on him

More formal and direct way of expressing the action of causing discomfort.

challenge his comfort zone

Focuses on pushing someone beyond their usual limits or habits, potentially causing discomfort.

apply pressure to him

Implies using external forces to make him uncomfortable through demands or stress.

put him in a difficult position

Describes a situation that causes discomfort through difficulty or disadvantage.

FAQs

How can I use "make him uncomfortable" in a sentence?

You can use "make him uncomfortable" to describe actions or situations that cause someone to feel uneasy or distressed. For instance, "His pointed questions were intended to "make him uncomfortable" during the interview".

What are some alternatives to "make him uncomfortable"?

Alternatives include "cause him unease", "put him on edge", or "make him feel awkward". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "make him uncomfortable" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider your audience. In highly formal contexts, phrases like "inflict discomfort on him" might be more suitable, though they also sound awkward in most scenarios.

What's the difference between "make him uncomfortable" and "cause him distress"?

"Make him uncomfortable" implies a milder form of unease, while "cause him distress" suggests a more significant level of suffering or anxiety. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the intensity of the situation.