ill at ease
The phrase "ill at ease" describes a state of discomfort or anxiety, often in social or unfamiliar situations.
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Definition
B2General
(common)Feeling uncomfortable or anxious, often in social or unfamiliar situations.
Example
- She felt ill at ease during the interview.
- He seemed ill at ease in the new environment.
B2Social
(informal)Experiencing nervousness or awkwardness in social settings.
Example
- He always feels ill at ease at large gatherings.
- She was ill at ease meeting new people.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "ill at ease":
at easeout of sortsat peaceout of placeoff guardat loose ends