irritably
Definition
- Adverb:
- In an irritable or easily annoyed manner: Describes an action done with impatience, a quick temper, or a low threshold for frustration.
- In a petulant or peevish manner: Describes an action done with childish irritation or bad-tempered complaining.
Usage Examples
- Adverb:
- He sighed irritably when asked the same question for the third time.
- "Not now," she said irritably, trying to concentrate on her work.
- The manager responded irritably to the delay, tapping his fingers on the desk.
Advanced Usage
- The adverb irritably often modifies verbs related to speech (e.g., ) or actions that reveal impatience (e.g., ). It describes the in which an action is performed.
- He glanced irritably at the noisy crowd. (The glance itself was impatient.)
Variants and Related Words
- Irritable (adjective): Having or showing a tendency to be easily annoyed or made angry.
- He was tired and irritable.
- Irritability (noun): The quality or state of being irritable.
- Lack of sleep can cause irritability.
Synonyms
- Testily: In an easily irritated or impatient manner.
- Peevishly: In a querulous or complaining way.
- Crossly: In an annoyed or angry way.
- Snappishly: In a sharp, irritable, or curt manner.
Antonyms
- Calmly: In a peaceful, quiet, or untroubled manner.
- Patiently: In a manner showing calm endurance of provocation or misfortune.
Related Phrases / Collocations
- To say/speak irritably: A common collocation describing the tone of speech.
- "I told you already," he spoke irritably.
- To react/respond irritably: Describes an impatient reaction.
- She reacted irritably to the criticism.
Adverb
-
in an irritable manner
-
she had become irritably exact
-
-
in a petulant manner; `Go away!'"
-
he said testily
-
