Definition

Adverb: * In an irritable, peevish, or easily annoyed manner. It describes an action done with impatience or a quickness to take offense.

Usage

The adverb "tetchily" is used to modify a verb (usually a verb of speaking or reacting) to indicate that the action was performed in a cross, grumpy, or touchy way. It often describes a tone of voice or a manner of response.

Examples

• "Not now," she replied tetchily, not looking up from her book.
• The customer tetchily demanded to speak to the manager.
• He tetchily pointed out the error in the report for the third time.

Advanced Usage

• Literary and Descriptive Use: "Tetchily" is more common in written narrative (e.g., novels, journalism) than in everyday spoken English. It is a precise word for conveying a character's irritable mood.
  • Example: The old professor tetchily adjusted his glasses, dissatisfied with the class's silence.

Variants and Related Words

• Tetchy (adjective): The adjective form, meaning irritable or touchy.
  • Example: He's been in a tetchy mood all morning.
• Tetchiness (noun): The state or quality of being tetchy.
  • Example: Her tetchiness was due to lack of sleep.

Synonyms

• Irritably
• Peevishly
• Testily
• Grumpily
• Crossly
• Snappishly

Antonyms

• Cheerfully
• Good-naturedly
• Patiently
• Amiably

Adverb

1. in an ill-natured and tetchy manner
   • `Are you sure?' he asked her tetchily