frustrate
verb (used with object)
to make (plans, efforts, etc.) worthless or of no avail; defeat; nullify.
are frustrating
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present progressiveof frustrate.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The mob’s actions are frustrating because they’re religiously bound to the king, who they believe is an emissary of God, and desperate to change their day-to-day existence.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2026
For Mike Craney, who has spent more than two decades driving lorries, such strikes are frustrating because, he believes, they should easily be avoided.
From BBC ● Jul. 5, 2026
TSA wait times are frustrating fliers — and this Friday looks to be a make-or-break day for American travelers.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 24, 2026
While disruptions are frustrating for internet users, investors tend to quickly shrug them off.
From Barron's ● Dec. 5, 2025
By my honour! by my soul! it was my intention to have placed her far, far above the reach of want; but you, my hollow monitor, are frustrating that intention.
From John Bull The Englishman's Fireside: A Comedy, in Five Acts by George Colman
