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

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frustrate

verb

/frʌˈstreɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of frustrate

To prevent something from happening or to make something difficult to achieve.
"The slow traffic on the way to work can frustrate even the most patient person."

Detailed meaning of frustrate

It is often used to describe the feeling of disappointment or discouragement that comes from being unable to achieve one's goals or desires. The term is used to describe the state of mind of someone who is impeded in their efforts, and it can be caused by a variety of factors such as lack of resources, lack of support, or unexpected obstacles. Frustration can also be caused by external factors such as rules, regulations or someone else's actions. It can be described as a feeling of being blocked, held back or thwarted in some way. Frustration can lead to negative emotions such as anger, sadness, and anxiety, and can affect a person's motivation, productivity and overall well-being. It can be a normal and natural part of life but if it becomes chronic, it can be detrimental to one's mental health.

Example sentences containing frustrate

1. His constant delays begin to frustrate his colleagues.
2. She did not mean to frustrate her tutor with her continuous questions.
3. The slow pace of the legal system can often frustrate those seeking justice.
4. His inability to articulate his feelings would frustrate her.
5. The complexities of the tax system frustrate many citizens.
6. Children's unpredictable behavior might frustrate even the most patient parents.

History and etymology of frustrate

The verb 'frustrate' has its origins in Latin, deriving from the word 'frustra,' which means 'in vain' or 'without success.' In Latin, 'frustra' was used to describe situations where efforts or actions yielded no results or were unsuccessful. When this concept was adapted into Middle English, it gave rise to the verb 'frustraten,' which meant to make someone's efforts or plans come to nothing or to prevent something from happening. Over time, 'frustrate' evolved to encompass the idea of causing disappointment, thwarting efforts, or making something difficult to achieve. The etymology of 'frustrate' reflects its historical connection to the notion of rendering someone's actions futile or in vain, and it continues to signify the act of hindering or impeding progress or success in contemporary usage.

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Further usage examples of frustrate

1. The puzzle seemed to only frustrate him further.
2. Trying to explain the concept again and again seemed to frustrate him.
3. Their lack of cooperation continues to frustrate our efforts.
4. The city's traffic problems frustrate its residents on a daily basis.
5. It's not my intention to frustrate you, but I need more information.
6. The lack of clear guidelines can frustrate the most dedicated employee.
7. The bureaucratic hurdles often frustrate small business owners.
8. My attempts to diet often frustrate me when I see no immediate results.
9. His mysterious behavior continues to frustrate his friends.
10. The constant interruptions would frustrate anyone trying to concentrate.
11. Trying to find a solution to the puzzle seemed to frustrate him more.
12. Her habit of changing plans at the last minute began to frustrate her friends.
13. The lack of transparency in the process may frustrate potential investors.
14. The computer glitch continues to frustrate users across the platform.