verb
displease
dis-PLEEZ/dɪsˈpliːz/
To make someone unhappy or dissatisfied.
The chair's still-wobbly leg displeases the customer inspecting the repair.
Etymology
The pieces mean 'not please' or 'not be acceptable.' The verb describes being disagreeable to someone, connecting a failure to satisfy with causing annoyance or unhappiness.
In context
the king will receive you in a manner that cannot displease you and no doubt you will make an allowance for the customs of the country if something should not be to your liking
More examples
- The restaurant's smaller portions displeased its regular customers.
- I don't want to displease you, but I disagree.
- She avoids displeasing her neighbors by keeping the music low.
Forms
displease · displeases · displeased · displeasing
displeasure noun — A feeling of unhappiness or dissatisfaction.
Similar words
- annoy
- Emphasizes irritation rather than a broader feeling of dissatisfaction.
- offend
- Emphasizes hurt feelings or resentment caused by perceived disrespect.
- disappoint
- Specifically suggests failing to meet someone's hopes or expectations.