Disconcert
Verb
Definition: To upset the self-possession or confidence of; perturb or fluster.
Synonyms: Unsettle, Disturb, Rattle, Unnerve
Antonyms: Comfort, Calm, Reassure
- The unexpected question disconcerted him during the interview.
- The sudden change in plans disconcerted the entire team.
- Think of "dis" as a negative prefix, so disconcert means to "disrupt" or "upset".
- Imagine a concert where everything goes wrong and it throws off everyone's self-possession, causing them to be disconcerted.
Etymology:
The word "disconcert" originated in the late 17th century from the French word "disconcerter", which means "to unsettle or disturb". The prefix "dis-" denotes negation or reversal, and "concerter" comes from the noun "concert", which at the time referred to an agreement or harmony.
Historical Usage:The word has been used consistently with its current definition throughout history.
Related Idioms:
"Throw someone off balance"
Explanation:This phrase is used to describe the effect of disconcerting someone, causing them to lose their equilibrium or composure.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "disconcert" with "disassemble" or "dismantle".
Explanation:While "disconcert" and these other words may share the same prefix of "dis-", they have distinct meanings. "Disconcert" refers to upsetting or perturbing someone's self-possession, while "disassemble" and "dismantle" refer to taking something apart or breaking it down.