"Put me at ease" describes feeling comfortable or relaxed, especially in situations that were initially tense or awkward. Imagine walking into a room full of strangers, feeling nervous, and then someone makes a joke that makes everyone laugh, including you. That joke "puts you at ease." It’s about moving from discomfort to comfort through an act, word, or environment. People might use this phrase when talking about feeling more relaxed after someone has reassured them or made them feel welcome.

In short:

• The idiom means making someone feel comfortable or relaxed.
• It describes the transition from feeling nervous or awkward to feeling calm.

What Does "Put Me at Ease" Mean?

The phrase "put me at ease" expresses feeling more comfortable or relaxed. If someone's kind words "put you at ease," they helped you transition from feeling anxious to calm. The phrase captures that moment of relief when a stressful situation turns friendly or manageable.

Let's explore its core meanings and usage:

• "Put me at ease" describes a feeling of relief or comfort in potentially stressful or unfamiliar situations.
• It's often used when someone does something that alleviates your anxieties or worries.
• This phrase signifies a change in emotion, moving from discomfort to comfort.
• People might say it after a reassuring gesture, like a warm smile from a stranger in a new city.
• You could use it in a sentence like "Her friendly demeanor put me at ease during the interview." This indicates the interviewee felt more comfortable because of the interviewer's behavior.
• Some related phrases are "made me feel comfortable," "relaxed my nerves," and "calmed my fears."

Where Does "Put Me at Ease" Come From?

The term "ease" itself comes from the Old French "aise," meaning "elbow room, opportunity," and by extension, "leisure, comfort." By the 14th century, the term had evolved in Middle English to mean "comfortable circumstances, well-being." Putting someone into a state of comfort or alleviating their distress or concern naturally led to the formation of the phrase "put me at ease."

Historical Example

"I have already reaped two important fruits of experience, which put me at ease about all that possibly may happen."

- The American Monthly Magazine, 1835

10 Examples of "Put Me at Ease" in Sentences

To help you better understand the use of this phrase, here are some examples from various situations:

• Even his lame joke put me at ease during the tense meeting.
• The doctor's reassuring words put me at ease about the minor surgery.
• Listening to my favorite song always puts me at ease after a stressful day.
• The mellow yellow color of the sunset always puts me at ease.
• The aroma of mom's cooking puts me at ease every time I visit home.
• Her funny stories always crack me up and put me at ease.
• Taking that leap of faith put me at ease about my future decisions.
• The view of the ocean from my balcony puts me at ease whenever I feel overwhelmed.
• "I've been there," she said, which immediately put me at ease.
• I feel like the stars aligned, and it put me at ease about my decision.

Examples of "Put Me at Ease" in Pop Culture

This phrase isn't as prominent in pop culture titles as other idioms, but its sentiment is often echoed in books, movies, and songs, emphasizing comfort in uneasy situations.

Let's check out some instances:

• In Tahereh Mafi's book "Unravel Me" (Shatter Me, #2), there's a line that reads: "Men with guns have never put me at ease no matter how many times they promised they were killing for good reason.
• R.A. Salvatore is quoted saying: "I am a creature of intelligence and reason. I know what actions please me and put me at ease, and which pain me."
• A quote from the book "The Secret Life Of Bees" is reminiscent of the phrase: "This reminded me of a time when I was having a low point in my life. I went out into the woods and seeing the tall trees and colorful flowers, it put me at ease."
• An article in "The New York Times" titled "Finding Comfort in Unexpected Places" includes a line: "The gentle hum of the city always put me at ease, reminding me I wasn't alone."

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Put Me at Ease"

Numerous expressions convey a sentiment similar to "put me at ease."

Here are a few of them:

• Calmed my nerves
• Made me feel relaxed
• Comforted me
• Settled my mind
• Helped me relax
• Relieved my stress
• Gave me peace of mind
• Made me feel comfortable
• Reassured me
• Alleviated my worries

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Put Me at Ease":

• What does "put me at ease" mean?

"Put me at ease" is a phrase that means to make someone feel relaxed or comfortable, especially in a situation where they were previously anxious or uncertain.

• How can I use "put me at ease" in a sentence?

This phrase is often used to describe someone or something that has a calming effect. For example: “It always puts me at ease to do a brain dump once in a while.” or “I was so taken with the beauty of the scene, it instantly put me at ease.”

• Is "put me at ease" a common expression?

Yes, it's a commonly used expression in English, especially in situations where someone feels nervous or uncertain and something changes to make them feel better.

• Can it be used in different contexts?

Definitely. "Put me at ease" can be used in personal, professional, or even unfamiliar settings. Any situation where you might feel anxious, uncertain, or uncomfortable is a candidate for this phrase if something helps you feel better.

• Is it about physical comfort?

Not just physical. While it can relate to physical comfort, it's often used to describe emotional or mental comfort as well.

• Does it imply a long-term relief?

Not always. "Put me at ease" can describe both temporary and long-term relief from discomfort or anxiety.

• Can music or other forms of art "put someone at ease"?

Yes, many people find solace in music, art, or other forms of entertainment that put them at ease and help them relax.

• Is it similar to "calming my nerves"?

Yes, "calming my nerves" and "put me at ease" are closely related. Both imply reducing anxiety or discomfort.

• Does it always come from external sources?

No, while external factors like a person's words or actions can put someone at ease, internal factors like self-reassurance or meditation can also play a role.

• How can I help put someone else at ease?

By being empathetic, understanding, and providing comfort or reassurance in whatever form is suitable for the situation.

Final Thoughts About "Put Me at Ease"

The expression "put me at ease" revolves around feeling comfortable and relieved, especially when there's some initial discomfort or anxiety. It's a universal sentiment and something everyone seeks in varying situations.

Here's a quick recap:

• "Put me at ease" is a reflection of the human desire to find comfort and peace in unsettling situations.
• There are countless ways to achieve this feeling, whether through kind words, a change in environment, or personal practices like deep breathing or mindfulness.
• People often use the phrase when expressing gratitude towards something or someone that made them feel better.
• It's a gentle reminder of the power of empathy and understanding. When we help put someone else at ease, we make the world a little bit kinder.