frustrate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /frʌˈstreɪt/
KK: /frʌsˈtreɪt/
adjective
Definition
To make someone feel annoyed or less confident because they cannot achieve what they want.
Example
The constant delays began to frustrate the team, making it hard for them to meet their deadlines.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more frustrating
Superlative: most frustrating
Conversation
I feel like my homework is really frustrate today.
I get that! Some assignments can be so overwhelming.
Exactly, it makes it hard to focus on anything else.
Just take a break; sometimes that helps clear your mind.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
annoyed
irritated
vexed
Antonyms
satisfied
pleased
content
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone feel upset or discouraged because they cannot achieve what they want.
Example
The constant delays in the project frustrated the entire team.
Tense Forms
Past: frustrated
Past Participle: frustrated
Conversation
I was trying to solve that puzzle all night, but it really frustrated me.
I get that! Sometimes those puzzles can be impossible.
Yeah, I just felt like giving up after a while.
Root Explanation
Frustrate → It is formed from "frustra" (meaning in vain) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to make or to cause). The word "frustrate" means to make something in vain or to thwart an effort.
Memory Tip
Think of the idea of something being done 'in vain' — 'frustra' means in vain, and the '-ate' means to make it happen. This helps you remember that to frustrate means to thwart or prevent success.
Visually Confused Words
refrustrate
unfrustrated
flusterate
rostrate
lustrate
crustate
rutate
rustre