acidulous

/ə'sidjuləs/

Thân thiện

The lemonade had an acidulous flavor that made her lips pucker.

Definition

Adjective: 1. Slightly sour or acidic in taste: Having a sharp, tart, or tangy flavor, but not strongly so. 2. ​Sharp or cutting in manner or tone: (Figurative) Describing speech, wit, or writing that is sharp, sarcastic, or biting.

Examples

• Adjective (Taste):
  • The salad dressing had a pleasantly acidulous flavor from the lemon juice.
  • The drink was acidulous, like a slightly sour apple.
• Adjective (Manner/Tone):
  • She responded with acidulous wit that silenced the critic.
  • His acidulous remarks about the proposal were not well-received.

Advanced Usage

• "Acidulous commentary": Refers to criticism that is sharp, sarcastic, and often unpleasant.
  • The film critic is known for his acidulous commentary.
• "An acidulous tone": Describes a way of speaking that is sharp and biting.
  • Her voice took on an acidulous tone when she discussed her rival.

Variants and Related Words

• Acidulate (verb): To make slightly acidic.
  • The chef acidulated the water with vinegar.
• Acidity (noun): The quality of being acid.
  • The acidity of the wine balanced its sweetness.

Synonyms

• Tart: Sharp or sour in taste.
• Tangy: Having a strong, sharp flavor or smell.
• Acerbic: (Especially for tone) Sharp and forthright, often harsh.
• Caustic: Bitterly sarcastic or severe.

Antonyms

• Sweet: Having the pleasant taste characteristic of sugar.
• Bland: Lacking strong flavor or character.
• Mild: Gentle and not harsh.
• Benevolent: Well-meaning and kindly (for tone/manner).

Học thuật

Adjective

1. being sour to the taste

Từ đồng nghĩa

• acidic
• acid
• acidulent