What is disgust? Pronunciation and usage in English

disgust means . Learn how to pronounce and use disgust through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of disgust

disgustnoun

/dɪsˈɡʌst/
Definition & pronunciation of disgust

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "disgust" in English. It's a tricky one because it has a slightly unusual sound. Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable by Syllable:

  • Dis: Pronounced like "dis" in "disappointment." It's a short, sharp "d" sound followed by "ih."
  • gust: This is the trickiest part. It’s pronounced like “gusst.” Think of it as a very quick, almost breathy "g" sound followed by a very short, quick "ust" sound. It’s not like the "guess" pronunciation.

2. Putting it Together:

The whole word is pronounced: “dis-gusst”

Here's a helpful way to hear it:

Tips for getting it right:

  • The "g" in "gust" is very short and subtle. It’s almost a puff of air. Don't over-emphasize it.
  • The "u" in "gust" is a reduced vowel sound. It's not pronounced like "guess." Think of a very brief, almost silent "uh" sound.

To summarize: "dis-gusst" – short "d," quick "g," and a tiny "ust."

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Usage and examples with the word disgust in English

Let's break down how to use the word "disgust" in English. It's a strong word, conveying a powerful feeling, so it's important to use it correctly.

1. Core Meaning: A Feeling of Strong Revulsion

At its heart, "disgust" is a feeling of intense aversion, revulsion, or loathing. It goes beyond simple dislike. It’s a deeply unpleasant emotion, often triggered by something considered offensive, repulsive, or morally wrong.

2. How to Use It – Different Contexts

  • As a Noun (the feeling):

    • "I felt a wave of disgust when I saw the mess." (Referring to the emotion itself)
    • "His response provoked a strong disgust in me."
    • "She experienced overwhelming disgust at the thought of eating insects."

  • As a Verb (to feel):

    • "I disgusted him with my awful joke." (Meaning you made him feel intensely repulsed or offended)
    • "She disgusted at the lack of decency." (Meaning she was intensely repulsed by it.)
    • "He disgusted her with his constant lying.” (He made her feel intensely repulsed/disgusted by his behavior.)

3. Types of Things That Cause Disgust

Disgust is often related to things we instinctively find offensive or harmful. Here’s a breakdown of common triggers:

  • Physical Disgust: This is the most common type. It's a reaction to things that are perceived as unclean, decaying, or potentially dangerous. Examples:

    • “I felt disgust at the smell of rotting food.”
    • “The sight of the spoiled milk was disgusting.”
    • “He had a disgust for raw oysters.”

  • Moral Disgust: This is a feeling of revulsion at something considered morally wrong, unethical, or cruel. Examples:

    • “I felt a deep disgust for the way he treated his employees.”
    • “The cruelty of the animal experiment caused widespread disgust."
    • "She felt disgust at the injustice of the situation."

  • Social Disgust: This can involve revulsion based on social norms or perceived breaches of etiquette. It’s about feeling repulsed by behaviors that violate what's considered acceptable in a society. Examples:

    • "He was disgusted by the rude manners of the guests."
    • “I felt disgust at the casual sexism in the meeting.”

4. Synonyms and Related Words

  • Revulsion: A close synonym – often interchangeable.
  • Aversion: A strong dislike or opposition.
  • Loathing: A feeling of intense dislike and disgust.
  • Dislike: A weaker feeling than disgust.
  • Repulsion: Strong feeling of wanting to avoid something.
  • Abhorrence: A feeling of profound repugnance or hatred.

5. Important Notes & Nuances

  • Intensity: Disgust is a strong emotion. Don't use it lightly. If you're describing something mildly unpleasant, “dislike” or “disapproval” might be more appropriate.

  • Subjectivity: What causes disgust varies from person to person and culture to culture. Something that’s disgusting to one person might not be to another.

  • Expressions: You can often accompany "disgust" with phrases to add emphasis:

    • "I was absolutely disgusted..."
    • "I was deeply disgusted..."
    • “It was utterly disgusting…”

Example Sentences Demonstrating Different Uses:

  • “The politician’s lies completely disgusted me.” (Verb – he made you feel disgusted)
  • “She felt a strong disgust for the corruption in the government.” (Noun – the feeling)
  • “The sight of the muddy water was disgusting.” (Noun - a repulsive sight)
  • "I disgusted him with my constant complaining." (Verb - you behaved in a way that disgusted him)

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Synonyms for the word disgust

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