Meaning and Usage
"動揺" (どうよう) refers to a state of emotional disturbance or agitation. It often describes feelings of being unsettled, shaken, or nervous due to unexpected events or stress.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to express psychological or emotional instability, such as anxiety before an important event, shock from sudden news, or market fluctuations.
Collocations and Patterns
- 動揺する: to be disturbed or shaken emotionally.
- 動揺を隠す: to hide one's agitation.
- 市場が動揺する: the market becomes unstable.
Register and Nuance
This word is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. It is more common in formal or serious contexts than casual conversation.
Learner Tips
Learners sometimes confuse 動揺 with simple surprise or excitement, but it specifically implies a negative emotional disturbance or instability. Remember it often involves anxiety or nervousness rather than positive feelings.