
Unnerve
Negative Emotion
Unnerve typically implies causing anxiety, fear, or loss of confidence.
The thought of public speaking unnerves me.
Sudden Impact
The effect described by 'unnerve' usually happens quickly and unexpectedly.
An unexpected noise in the dark room unnerved her.
Psychological Effect
Use 'unnerve' to describe a mental or emotional impact, rather than a physical one.
The intense gaze of the interviewer unnerved the candidate.