discomfit

/dis'kʌmfit/

Thân thiện

The unexpected question discomfited the speaker during the presentation.

Definition

1. Verb:
   • To cause to lose one's composure: To make someone feel uneasy, embarrassed, or confused; to disconcert or thwart.

Usage

The verb "discomfit" is used to describe the action of unsettling someone, often by causing mild embarrassment, confusion, or frustration. It implies an act that disrupts a person's poise or confidence. It is a formal word.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The interviewer's unexpected question discomfited the politician, who struggled to find a coherent answer.
  • Her sudden outburst of laughter discomfited the solemn speaker.
  • He was discomfited by the realization that he had forgotten his client's name.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Literary Usage: In older or more literary contexts, "discomfit" can carry the stronger meaning of to defeat utterly or to thwart plans.
  • The general's strategy succeeded in discomfiting the enemy's advance.

Variants and Related Words

• Discomfiture (noun): A feeling of unease or embarrassment.
  • He tried to hide his discomfiture after tripping on stage.

Synonyms

• Disconcert: To disturb the composure of; unsettle.
• Embarrass: To cause someone to feel awkward, self-conscious, or ashamed.
• Fluster: To make someone agitated or confused.
• Abash: To cause to feel embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed.
• Rattle (informal): To make someone nervous or annoyed.

Antonyms

• Comfort: To soothe or console.
• Reassure: To say or do something to remove someone's doubts or fears.
• Encourage: To give support, confidence, or hope to someone.

Học thuật

Verb

1. cause to lose one's composure

Từ đồng nghĩa

• upset
• discompose
• untune
• disconcert