upsetting
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ʌpˈsɛtɪŋ/
KK: /ʌpˈsɛtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing feelings of sadness, worry, or disappointment.
Example
The news of the accident was very upsetting to everyone.
Conversation
I just heard some news that was really upsetting today.
Oh no, what happened?
They canceled the concert we were looking forward to.
That's so disappointing! I was really excited about it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
distressing
troubling
disconcerting
Antonyms
comforting
pleasing
reassuring
noun
Definition
The act of causing someone to feel unhappy or worried.
Example
The upsetting of the schedule made everyone anxious.
Conversation
I heard the news about the game last night, and it was really upsetting.
Yeah, I couldn't believe they lost in the last minute.
It's such a shame; I was really looking forward to it.
verb
Definition
To cause someone to feel unhappy, worried, or disappointed.
Example
The news of the cancellation was very upsetting to the fans.
Tense Forms
Past: upset
Past Participle: upset
Conversation
I found out that my favorite show got canceled, and it’s really upsetting.
Oh no, that’s such a bummer!
I was really looking forward to the new season.
Root Explanation
Upsetting → It is formed from "up" (meaning to a higher position) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The word "upsetting" means causing something to be placed in a higher position in a way that disturbs or disrupts.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'placed' ('set') in a way that 'disturbs' ('up') your peace — that's what upsetting means.
Visually Confused Words
upsitting
unsetting
setting
unsettling
sunsetting
outsetting
settling
typesetting