Emotions / A2

up-SET/ʌpˈset/

Upset as an adjective means unhappy, worried, or disappointed: be upset, look upset, upset about. Sad is a close cousin; upset often follows a specific event. Angry is hotter. Upset can also be a verb (upset someone) or a noun (a stomach upset). Stress on the second syllable for the adjective. Do not write upset when you mean set up (arrange), or upstairs.

Meaning

Unhappy, worried, or disappointed because of something.

Examples

• “She was upset when the trip was cancelled.”
• “He was upset about the cancelled match.”
• “Try not to get upset — we can book another train.”

Good to know

be upset about / look upset. Cousin: sad. Verb extra: upset someone. Mix-up: set up.

Near in meaning

sad

Topics

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