make someone uncomfortable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make someone uncomfortable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing actions, words, or situations that cause someone to feel uneasy or distressed. Example: "His comments during the meeting made everyone feel uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Robots' gazes must also be carefully programmed lest a stare make someone uncomfortable.

The Economist

"I would be distressed if I actually hurt somebody, but I am prepared to make someone uncomfortable or incur displeasure.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Again, you will want to speak softly, suggesting that it's best to ask questions that might make someone uncomfortable when that person isn't nearby.

Huffington Post

In order not to create upheaval, lose love or make someone uncomfortable (myself included), I would withhold saying or doing things that would demonstrate my authentic nature or bring me joy.

Huffington Post

This type of behavior will not only make someone uncomfortable, but it is also illegal.[37].[37]

WikiHow

Stay away from any decorations that are funky or make someone uncomfortable.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

So while it may be acceptable at some point in time to smooch a movie star in India or rub down a head of state during a meeting, making someone uncomfortable has and always will be a faux pas.

Forbes

No one deserves to be killed because they show love for a person in a way that makes someone uncomfortable.

Huffington Post

Asking someone in person or over the phone is more personal, but you run the risk of making someone uncomfortable.

WikiHow

Making someone uncomfortable on purpose is against Animal Jam's rules, and you shouldn't become so fixated on it, anyway.

WikiHow

Here are some ways this difficulty might manifest itself: The person might not recognize when they've said something hurtful, or when they're making someone uncomfortable in a conversation.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and your audience when using the phrase "make someone uncomfortable". It's important to be mindful of the potential impact of your words or actions.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "make someone uncomfortable" as it can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "cause discomfort" or "create unease" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make someone uncomfortable" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of causing a person to feel uneasy, distressed, or awkward. It describes the effect of one's actions or words on another person's emotional state. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make someone uncomfortable" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe actions or situations that cause feelings of unease or distress. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It is frequently found in news media and online articles, serving to highlight the impact of certain behaviors on individuals. While the phrase itself is neutral in register, the context in which it's used can vary, ranging from discussions of social interactions to ethical considerations. To avoid repetition, consider using alternatives such as "cause discomfort to someone" or "create unease in someone".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause discomfort to someone

Replaces "make uncomfortable" with "cause discomfort", focusing on the act of causing discomfort.

create unease in someone

Uses "create unease" instead of "make uncomfortable", highlighting the generation of a feeling of unease.

cause someone to feel uneasy

More descriptive, specifying the feeling of uneasiness as a consequence.

make someone ill at ease

A more descriptive way of saying cause discomfort, ill at ease refers to someone being nervous or uncomfortable.

inflict discomfort on someone

Emphasizes the act of inflicting discomfort, suggesting a more deliberate action.

make someone feel awkward

Focuses on the feeling of awkwardness as the result of someone's actions.

put someone on edge

Highlights the effect of making someone feel nervous or anxious.

disturb someone's peace of mind

Shifts focus to disrupting someone's tranquility.

foment disquiet in someone

A more formal and less common way of saying causing unease.

leave someone with a bad taste

Conveys that something leaves an unpleasant feeling, similar to discomfort.

FAQs

How can I avoid making someone uncomfortable?

Be mindful of social cues, personal boundaries, and cultural differences. Consider your words and actions from the other person's perspective and adjust your behavior accordingly. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.

What are some alternative ways to say "make someone uncomfortable"?

You can use phrases like "cause discomfort to someone", "create unease in someone", or "make someone feel awkward" depending on the specific context.

Is it always wrong to make someone uncomfortable?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, making someone uncomfortable can be a catalyst for positive change or necessary for setting boundaries. However, it's essential to consider your intentions and the potential consequences before intentionally making someone uncomfortable.

How do I respond if I realize I've made someone uncomfortable?

Acknowledge your mistake, apologize sincerely, and take steps to rectify the situation. Avoid defensiveness and listen to the other person's perspective. Show that you are committed to learning from the experience and avoiding similar situations in the future.