frustrating - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
frustrating Word Meanings
- to prevent someone from achieving a goal
- to cause feelings of anger or disappointment
- to make ineffective or nullify
frustrating Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
frustrating Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/frʌs.treɪt/
US
/frʌs.treɪt/
frustrating Word Etymology
frustrate = frustra (Latin for 'in vain') + -ate (verb-forming suffix). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine trying to reach a high shelf but constantly slipping; that frustration embodies this word's essence.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Frustrate means to hinder someone from achieving a goal or to provoke feelings of anger or disappointment. It can also mean to make something less effective or to nullify an effort. The verb is commonly used with a person as the affected party (frustrate someone's plans) or with a situation (delays can frustrate progress). You might say a policy or a set of rules frustrates a project, or that repeated obstacles frustrate a team. The sense of thwarting comes from the Latin frustra (in vain), which underpins the idea of blocking or rendering an effort ineffective. Learners should keep straight when frustration is the emotional response vs when it is a blockage of success.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Do not confuse with annoy or irritate; 2. Use with 'plans' or 'progress' to show blockage; 3. Distinguish be frustrated (emotion) vs frustrate (action); 4. Use be frustrated by for emotional reaction; 5. Prefer synonyms like thwart, hinder in formal writing; 6. Remember Latin root frustra = in vain.
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking frustrate for annoy or irritate.
- Thinking frustration only refers to a feeling, not an action.
- Believing you can fru-strate a person directly in most contexts.
- Using frustrate when you mean 'to disappoint emotionally' without the obstacle.
- Confusing with 'frustration' the noun rather than the verb.
Thinking Differences
In English, frustration is commonly framed as both a blocked objective and an emotional response. Learners should distinguish thwarting a goal from feeling angry about a delay; English often separates state (be frustrated) from action (frustrate).
Learning Tips
- - Learn the two core senses: blocking a goal vs emotional frustration.
- - Practice collocations: frustrate someone’s plans, frustrate progress.
- - Distinguish passive be frustrated by (emotion) from active frustrate (cause an obstacle).
- - Use synonyms like thwart, hinder, impede in formal writing.
- - Note noun frustration and adjective frustrating as related forms.
- - Read and listen for contexts where obstruction is the focus.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'frustrating'?
A.Pleasurable
B.Motivating
C.Exciting
D.Annoying
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'frustrating' used correctly?
A.The sunny day was very frustrating for the beachgoers.
B.The delicious meal was very frustrating for the family.
C.The easy puzzle was very frustrating for the kids.
D.The colorful painting was very frustrating for the art lovers.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'frustrating'?
A.Satisfying
B.Aggravating
C.Successful
D.Encouraging
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'frustrating'?
A.Challenging
B.Demanding
C.Difficult
D.Rewarding
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would you find 'frustrating'?
A.Completing a challenging puzzle
B.Enjoying a relaxing vacation
C.Receiving a surprise gift
D.Successfully baking a cake
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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