The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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bother

verb

/ˈbɒð ər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of bother

To cause annoyance, disturbance, or inconvenience to someone or something.
"Please don't bother me while I'm studying; I need complete focus."

Detailed meaning of bother

When someone bothers, they engage in actions or behaviors that disrupt, trouble, or disturb the peace or comfort of another person or situation. Bothering can encompass a range of actions, such as repeatedly interrupting, pestering, or intruding upon someone's privacy. It can also involve causing physical discomfort or inconvenience. Moreover, "bother" can convey a sense of concern or worry about something or someone, leading to a desire to address or attend to the matter. In this sense, bothering can be motivated by care or consideration. Additionally, the verb "bother" can be used to express one's own feelings of annoyance, irritation, or inconvenience in response to a particular situation or action. Overall, "bother" involves actions or behaviors that disturb, trouble, or cause inconvenience to oneself or others.

Example sentences containing bother

1. If you don't understand the instructions, don't hesitate to bother the teacher for clarification.
2. When you're feeling down, it's important to bother a friend or loved one and talk about your feelings.
3. If the noise continues to be loud, I'll have to bother the neighbors and ask them to turn it down.
4. Should I bother the boss with this minor issue, or try to resolve it myself first?
5. Even though she had a lot on her plate, she made sure to bother her elderly neighbor and check on him regularly.
6. When he got lost, he decided to bother a local and ask for directions.

History and etymology of bother

The verb 'bother' has its etymological roots in the Middle English word 'botheren,' which meant 'to confuse' or 'to perplex.' It is believed to have been influenced by the Old English word 'bodan,' meaning 'to announce' or 'to foretell.' Over time, 'bother' took on the sense of causing disturbance, annoyance, or inconvenience, likely through the idea that something that confuses or perplexes can also be bothersome. The evolution of this word showcases how linguistic concepts can shift and broaden in meaning, as 'bother' transformed from describing a state of mental confusion to representing actions or situations that trouble or vex individuals, leading to annoyance or disturbance.

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Further usage examples of bother

1. The dog continued to bother the cat, chasing it around the garden.
2. When you need help, don't hesitate to bother me; I'll always be here for you.
3. Before making the final decision, I'll need to bother the team for their opinions.
4. We may need to bother the head chef about the change in the menu.
5. It is always wise to bother a mentor when you need career advice.
6. He was hesitant to bother the librarian, but he really needed help finding a book.
7. If you find the assignment challenging, don't be shy to bother the tutor for extra help.
8. Sometimes it's necessary to bother a busy person if you need their expertise.
9. If the room temperature is not comfortable, do bother the hotel staff to adjust it.
10. When you face a technical issue, don't forget to bother the IT department.
11. Before making a big financial decision, always bother your financial advisor.
12. She didn't want to bother her professor after hours, but she had a pressing question.
13. I'll have to bother my lawyer to understand the legal implications of this contract.
14. If your medication causes side effects, don't hesitate to bother your doctor about it.