Disgusted: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
Disgusted – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “disgusted” typically functions as an adjective in English. It describes a strong feeling of revulsion or profound disapproval. When someone is disgusted, they experience intense distaste or contempt towards something or someone.
Grammatically, “disgusted” can also be part of the verb form “to disgust,” which means to cause a feeling of repulsion or strong aversion in someone (“She was disgusted by his behavior”).
Core Synonyms
Below is a table listing key synonyms for “disgusted,” including brief definitions and example sentences. Each synonym’s style or register is also noted.
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repulsed | Indicates a strong aversion, often more physical. | “She felt repulsed by the sight of spoiled food.” | Formal/Informal |
| Aghast | Suggests shock or horror at something unexpected. | “He was aghast at the news of the betrayal.” | Academic/Formal |
| Appalled | Implies moral shock, often due to ethical violations. | “The community leaders were appalled by the company’s actions.” | Business/Informal |
| Revolted | Conveys a deep sense of repugnance or disgust. | “She was revolted by the unethical practices she witnessed.” | Casual/Formal |
| Outraged | Indicates anger and disapproval, often with a sense of injustice. | “The public was outraged at the unfair treatment they received.” | Informal/Business |
Usage Notes
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Repulsed is suitable for contexts where there’s a more physical or visceral reaction, such as in health-related discussions.
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Aghast can be used effectively to convey surprise coupled with disgust, making it ideal for narrative writing that aims to capture emotional intensity.
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Appalled works well in business or ethical contexts where moral standards are central. It suggests not just disgust but also a breach of what is considered right.
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Revolted is fitting for casual and formal scenarios alike when describing situations that elicit deep personal distaste.
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Outraged often appears in social commentary and discussions about justice, emphasizing an emotional response to perceived unfairness or wrongdoing.
Common Pitfalls
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Confusing “disgusted” with synonyms like “annoyed,” which denotes irritation rather than revulsion. While both are negative feelings, the intensity and nature differ significantly.
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Using “aghast” inappropriately as a synonym for simple surprise without an element of shock or horror.
Final Recap
In summary, while “disgusted” conveys a strong sense of repugnance, its synonyms offer nuanced differences that can enrich your writing. Each word provides a unique shade of meaning: from the visceral aversion implied by “repulsed,” to the moral shock suggested by “appalled,” or the anger and injustice highlighted by “outraged.” By understanding these nuances, you can choose the most appropriate term for any context.
To master their use, try crafting sentences using these synonyms in various contexts: from casual conversations about food preferences to formal essays on ethical issues. Experiment with dialogue in creative writing, where emotional responses are key, or business reports discussing public reactions to company policies. This practice will enhance your ability to communicate effectively and precisely.