ill-natured
Definition
Adjective: 1. Having an irritable and unpleasant disposition: Describes a person who is habitually bad-tempered, unfriendly, and inclined to be mean or disagreeable.
Usage
The adjective "ill-natured" is used to describe a person's fundamental character or a specific action that reveals such a character. It implies a chronic tendency rather than a temporary mood. * It typically precedes a noun (e.g., an ill-natured remark) or follows a linking verb like "be" or "seem" (e.g., He is ill-natured). * It is a stronger and more character-focused term than simply "grumpy" or "irritable."
Examples
- Her comments ruined the festive atmosphere.
- The manager was known for being and critical, which lowered staff morale.
- It was an debate, with both candidates resorting to personal insults.
- Despite his success, he remained a bitter and old man.
Advanced Usage
- Ill-natured can be used to describe abstract things like disputes, criticism, or rivalry, implying they are characterized by spite and hostility.
- The legal battle between the siblings became increasingly ill-natured.
Variants and Related Words
- Ill-nature (noun): The quality or state of being ill-natured.
- His constant ill-nature made him very few friends.
Synonyms
- Mean-spirited: Motivated by pettiness or malice.
- Cantankerous: Bad-tempered, argumentative, and uncooperative.
- Spiteful: Showing or caused by malice.
- Surly: Bad-tempered and unfriendly.
Antonyms
- Good-natured: Kind, friendly, and patient.
- Amiable: Having a friendly and pleasant manner.
- Genial: Friendly and cheerful.
Related Idioms
- To show one's ill nature: To reveal one's unpleasant character through words or actions.
- He showed his ill nature by refusing to help.
Adjective
-
having an irritable and unpleasant disposition
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