in-a-state
/ˌɪn ə ˈsteɪt/ IELTSAcademic
phrase
Upset, anxious, or emotionally unbalanced. It is used when someone is very worried, angry, or distressed. The phrase is informal and often sounds British.
- She was in a state after the phone call.
- Don't get in a state about one mistake.
- He's always in a state before exams.
Adinary Nuance
In-a-state is less direct than upset and less strong than panic. It often suggests visible worry or emotional fuss, especially in British speech. Writers choose it when someone is flustered, stressed, or overreacting, not deeply shocked or in crisis.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- rối trí
- Spanish
- nervioso
- Chinese
- 慌张不安
- Japanese
- 取り乱している
- Korean
- 동요한
Etymology
This phrase comes from the common English expression "in a state," meaning in a bad emotional or mental condition. It has been used in British English for a long time.
Common phrases
in a complete stateget in a stateshe was in a statedon't be in a state
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is in a state formal or informal?
- It is informal. People use it more in speech and everyday writing than in formal reports.
- Is in a state the same as upset?
- Not exactly. It usually means upset plus nervous, flustered, or visibly worried.
- Is in a state used in American English?
- It is understood, but it sounds more British than American.
- Can I use in a state for stress?
- Yes. It can describe someone who is very stressed and emotionally unsettled.