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frustrated
/frʌˈstreɪtɪd/
feeling upset or annoyed
I felt frustrated when my computer crashed right before I saved my work.
The speaker expresses annoyance due to losing unsaved progress.
general
feeling upset or annoyed due to being unable to achieve a goal or overcome an obstacle
She was frustrated because the printer kept jamming.
The person's annoyance stems from repeated technical failure.
He felt frustrated after failing the driving test three times.
The repeated failure caused ongoing disappointment.
Often used to describe emotional reactions to barriers, delays, or powerlessness. Can imply mild to intense irritation.
Collocations
feel frustratedto experience frustrationget frustratedto become frustratedfrustrated withannoyed by a specific thing or person
Pro Tip
Use 'frustrated' for temporary emotions
Unlike 'depressed' or 'hopeless,' 'frustrated' implies a specific cause and is usually temporary. Example: 'I’m frustrated with the slow Wi-Fi' (not a long-term state).
Gold Rule
Avoid overusing 'frustrated'
Use synonyms like 'annoyed' or 'exasperated' to vary your language. Example: 'I’m exasperated by the constant interruptions' sounds more sophisticated than repeating 'frustrated.'
Word Origin
From Latin *frustratus*, past participle of *frustrare* ('to deceive, disappoint'), from *frustra* ('in vain'). Entered English in the 17th century via French *frustré*.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both casual and formal contexts. Often followed by 'with' (frustrated with someone/something) or 'at' (frustrated at a situation). In writing, it can describe persistent or temporary feelings.
Word Breakdown
frustr-
from Latin *frustrare*, meaning 'to deceive or disappoint'
root-ated
past participle suffix indicating a state or condition
suffixEnglish Dictionary