more unsettling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more unsettling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes a greater sense of discomfort or anxiety compared to something else. Example: "The second movie in the series was even more unsettling than the first, leaving the audience on edge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Looking down, however, is more unsettling.

The Economist

It's more unsettling than that.

The Guardian - Books

The EU situation is more unsettling still.

The Guardian - Opinion

But now came a more unsettling possibility.

The Washington Post

But worry was more unsettling than judgment.

The New York Times - Style

And there lurks a more unsettling implication.

The New York Times - Books

The positive comments are more unsettling.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was to become even more unsettling.

The Guardian - Books

But there's also a more unsettling sight: a busy settlement.

The New York Times - Books

"Born Yesterday" taught her something even more unsettling.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That was the second and in some ways more unsettling threat to the role system.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "more unsettling" to describe a feeling or situation that is increasingly causing anxiety or discomfort. Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, as alternatives like "more disturbing" or "more alarming" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

While "unsettling" is widely understood, overuse in formal writing can dilute its impact. In academic or professional contexts, consider using stronger, more precise alternatives like "disturbing", "concerning", or "problematic" to add weight to your statements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more unsettling" functions primarily as a comparative adjective phrase. It serves to describe a noun by indicating that it possesses a higher degree of the quality of being unsettling than something else. Ludwig provides examples illustrating this usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Books

8%

Opinion

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more unsettling" is a common and grammatically sound comparative adjective phrase used to describe something that evokes a greater sense of unease or anxiety than something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it frequently appears in news media, books, and opinion pieces. While broadly applicable, being mindful of context and considering alternatives can add nuance and precision to your writing. Remember to choose the option that best fits the intensity and specific cause of the discomfort you aim to convey. By understanding the nuances and potential pitfalls associated with the phrase, you can enhance the clarity and impact of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more disturbing

This alternative suggests a greater level of mental or emotional agitation.

more alarming

This alternative emphasizes the potential for danger or threat.

more disconcerting

This alternative focuses on a feeling of confusion or disorientation.

more unnerving

This alternative highlights the loss of composure or courage.

more troubling

This alternative suggests a deeper sense of worry or concern.

more disquieting

This alternative implies a subtle but pervasive feeling of anxiety.

increasingly uneasy

This alternative conveys a gradual growth in discomfort.

more worrisome

This alternative emphasizes the cause for concern and anxiety.

more frightening

This alternative directly indicates a higher level of fear.

more creepy

This alternative implies a sense of unease associated with the uncanny or bizarre.

FAQs

How can I use "more unsettling" in a sentence?

You can use "more unsettling" to compare two things, indicating that one causes greater unease than the other. For example, "The silence was "more unsettling" than the argument had been."

What are some alternatives to "more unsettling"?

Alternatives to "more unsettling" include "more disturbing", "more alarming", or "more disconcerting". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "more unsettling"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "More" is used to form the comparative degree of the adjective "unsettling". Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is widely used in different contexts.

What's the difference between "more unsettling" and "unsettling"?

"Unsettling" describes something that causes unease or anxiety. "More unsettling" indicates a higher degree of this feeling when comparing it to something else. The phrase indicates that something is relatively more disturbing or alarming than another thing that is already unsettling.