was uneasy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was uneasy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of discomfort or anxiety in a past context. Example: "She was uneasy about the upcoming presentation, fearing she might forget her lines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But Mr. Gyllenhaal was uneasy.

The New York Times

It was uneasy.

The Guardian

But Mrs. Clinton was uneasy.

The New York Times

But this time, I was uneasy.

The New York Times - Magazine

But she was uneasy with children.

The Guardian - Arts

Kramer's position within the group was uneasy from the start.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I was uneasy as I climbed back to my atelier.

The New Yorker

He was uneasy, but his mother was terrified.

The New York Times

Ines was uneasy, even in this small city.

The New Yorker

Stallman was uneasy over the increasing encroachment of proprietary software.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

From the start, this business of reading friends' books was uneasy-making.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "was uneasy" to describe a past state of mild anxiety, discomfort, or apprehension, often in response to a specific situation or event.

Common error

Avoid using "was uneasy" when a stronger emotion like "was terrified" or "was panicked" is more accurate. "Was uneasy" suggests a mild level of discomfort, not extreme fear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was uneasy" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the subject's state of mind or emotional condition in the past. It indicates a feeling of mild anxiety, discomfort, or apprehension. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "was uneasy" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a past state of mild anxiety, discomfort, or apprehension. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, particularly in news and media. It's crucial to remember that "was uneasy" signifies a milder emotion compared to stronger terms like "was terrified". When writing, consider the intensity of the feeling you want to convey. If extreme fear is present, a stronger phrase is more appropriate. By understanding the nuances and common errors associated with "was uneasy", writers can effectively use it to accurately convey a speaker or character's emotional state.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

felt anxious

Focuses more on the feeling of worry or apprehension.

felt uncomfortable

Highlights the sense of physical or emotional discomfort.

felt apprehensive

Emphasizes a sense of foreboding or expectation of something negative.

felt worried

Directly expresses concern about a particular situation.

felt disturbed

Indicates a sense of being unsettled or bothered.

felt restless

Highlights an inability to relax or stay still.

felt agitated

Suggests a state of heightened tension or irritation.

felt uncertain

Focuses on a lack of confidence or clarity.

felt insecure

Emphasizes a lack of self-assurance or confidence.

felt awkward

Highlights the feeling of being clumsy or out of place.

FAQs

How can I use "was uneasy" in a sentence?

You can use "was uneasy" to describe a feeling of discomfort or anxiety in the past. For example: "She "was uneasy" about the upcoming presentation."

What are some alternatives to "was uneasy"?

Alternatives include "felt anxious", "felt uncomfortable", or "felt apprehensive", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "was uneasy" formal or informal?

"Was uneasy" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

What's the difference between "was uneasy" and "was worried"?

"Was uneasy" suggests a general feeling of discomfort or mild anxiety, while "was worried" implies concern about a specific issue or situation.