Blog

Nuisance

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A person, thing, or situation that causes inconvenience, annoyance, or harm.
2. An action or behavior that disturbs or interferes with the comfort or enjoyment of others.
3. A source of persistent trouble or irritation.
4. Something that disrupts the normal flow or functioning of an environment or activity.
5. A minor but annoying problem or obstacle.

History and Origin

The word “nuisance” comes from the Old French nuisance, derived from the verb nuire, meaning “to harm” or “to hurt.” The term was adopted into Middle English in the late 14th century. Originally, it was used to refer to anything harmful or injurious, especially in legal contexts where it described an action or condition that interfered with another person’s rights or comfort. Over time, its meaning broadened to include anything that causes inconvenience or annoyance, even if it is not necessarily harmful in a legal sense.

Detailed Explanation

A “nuisance” refers to something or someone that causes inconvenience or annoyance. It can range from minor annoyances, such as noise or unpleasant smells, to more significant issues that interfere with one’s ability to function or enjoy a particular space.

In a legal context, a nuisance is a condition or activity that disrupts the rights of others or causes harm, such as loud noise, pollution, or other disturbances. Nuisances can be public (affecting the general community) or private (affecting an individual or a small group).

In everyday usage, “nuisance” is typically used to describe anything that is bothersome, whether it’s a noisy neighbor, a malfunctioning appliance, or an ongoing issue that creates frustration.

Example Sentences

1. The loud construction noise was a constant nuisance during the day.
2. His constant complaints became a nuisance to everyone in the office.
3. The barking dog next door was more of a nuisance than a real problem.
4. They filed a lawsuit claiming that the factory was a public nuisance due to its pollution.
5. Cleaning up the mess in the hallway was a small nuisance but had to be done.
6. The long wait in line turned into a real nuisance for the impatient customers.
7. The faulty air conditioning was a nuisance, causing the room to become uncomfortably warm.
8. The constant emails from marketing companies became a nuisance to my inbox.
9. The teenager’s loud music was a nuisance to the neighbors every weekend.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Annoyance – Something that irritates or bothers, similar to a nuisance.
2. Bother – A small irritation or disturbance that causes inconvenience.
3. Disruption – A disturbance or interruption that causes things to stop functioning as usual.
4. Inconvenience – A minor problem or difficulty that causes discomfort or hassle.
5. Problem – An issue or situation that causes trouble, similar to a nuisance.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Disturbance – An interruption or disruption, often referring to an event that causes inconvenience.
2. Interruption – A break or disturbance in something, often resulting in a nuisance.
3. Trouble – A situation or issue that causes difficulty or discomfort, akin to a nuisance.
4. Imposition – An unwelcome burden or requirement, often seen as a nuisance.
5. Vexation – The state of being annoyed or bothered, similar to feeling troubled by a nuisance.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Headache – A figurative term for something that causes irritation or frustration, like a nuisance.
2. Obstruction – A physical or metaphorical blockage that disrupts progress, akin to a nuisance.
3. Pain – A source of discomfort or annoyance, often used to describe a minor nuisance.
4. Hassle – A situation that causes inconvenience or frustration, much like a nuisance.
5. Plague – An ongoing problem or issue that causes persistent annoyance, similar to a nuisance.

Antonyms

1. Benefit
2. Convenience
3. Relief
4. Help
5. Advantage