not at ease

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not at ease" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of discomfort or anxiety in a particular situation. Example: "During the meeting, I felt not at ease with the sudden changes in the project plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Not that I'm not at ease.

The New Yorker

She's not at ease with words.

The Guardian

But I'm not at ease with it".

The New Yorker

I'm not at ease in large groups of people.

Independent

Are you going Friday? "I'm not at ease.

The New Yorker

A year later, Dr. Rayle, 53, seems not at ease.

The New York Times

But he was not at ease with himself.

The Guardian - Sport

The ghetto suggests they are not at ease.

The Guardian

I sat crosslegged, not at ease enough to lie down.

The New York Times - Arts

"If you go outside that number," he warned, "you strike people who are either not at ease in a ballroom or else make other people not at ease".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So dukkha might also be translated as not-at-ease, or discontent -- an experience we all can relate to.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's internal state, use "not at ease" to convey a subtle sense of discomfort that might not be overtly expressed. It is more nuanced than simply stating someone is "uncomfortable".

Common error

While "not at ease" is generally acceptable, overuse in highly formal writing can make it sound less sophisticated. Consider stronger, more precise vocabulary to enhance the writing's impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not at ease" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a subject to indicate a state of discomfort, anxiety, or lack of confidence. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not at ease" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a state of discomfort, anxiety, or lack of confidence. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples of its usage across various contexts. While generally neutral in register, it is particularly prevalent in news and media sources. For alternative expressions, consider "uncomfortable", "ill at ease", or "uneasy", depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncomfortable

Direct synonym, focusing on physical or mental discomfort.

ill at ease

Synonymous, but slightly more formal and emphasizes a general feeling of unease.

uneasy

Similar in meaning, highlighting anxiety or apprehension.

restless

Implies a lack of peace and inability to relax, with a connotation of movement or agitation.

anxious

Focuses specifically on worry and nervousness about potential future events.

apprehensive

Suggests a feeling of dread or anticipation of something unpleasant.

on edge

Implies a state of heightened alertness and tension.

tense

Describes a state of physical or mental strain.

jittery

Suggests nervousness, often accompanied by physical trembling or fidgeting.

unsettled

Implies a lack of stability or peace of mind.

FAQs

What does "not at ease" mean?

The phrase "not at ease" means feeling uncomfortable, anxious, or lacking confidence in a particular situation.

What are some synonyms for "not at ease"?

You can use alternatives like "uncomfortable", "ill at ease", or "uneasy" depending on the context.

How can I use "not at ease" in a sentence?

You might say, "He seemed "not at ease" during the presentation" or "I felt "not at ease" in the crowded room."

Is "not at ease" formal or informal?

The phrase "not at ease" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though in very formal writing, stronger synonyms may be preferred.