irritable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
irritable Word Meanings
- easily annoyed
- prone to anger
- sensitive and quick to react
irritable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
irritable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɪr.ɪ.tə.bəl/
US
/ˈɪr.ɪ.tə.bəl/
irritable Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'irrit-' from Latin 'irritare' meaning to disturb + '-able' indicating capability. Historical origin: Latin → Old French 'irritable' → English. Memory image: Picture a person whose mood quickly changes with even the slightest disturbance, like a balloon ready to pop.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Irritable describes a person who is easily annoyed and quick to anger. It often implies heightened sensitivity, a low tolerance for frustration, or moodiness that can flare up after stress, fatigue, or minor annoyances. The term usually refers to temporary states rather than a fixed personality trait, and it’s best used with care when describing others. In everyday speech you might say, 'She was irritable after the long flight,' or 'Don’t push him right now—he’s irritable.' Note that irritable is related to irritability, while irritated describes being angry or bothered, not the general tendency to react strongly. Use it with context so your meaning remains respectful.
Usage Reminders
- Be careful: irritable usually describes mood, not permanent personality.
- Often refers to a temporary state caused by fatigue, stress, or pain.
- Use context to show why the irritability happens.
- Avoid labeling someone as 'an irritable person' in a harsh way.
- Differentiate irritability from anger or aggression to keep nuance clear.
Common Misconceptions
- Irritable means always angry.
- It describes a fixed personality trait.
- Only people who yell can be irritable.
- Irritable describes things, not people.
- Irritable is the same as irritated.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that irritability often marks a temporary mood change caused by fatigue, stress, or pain rather than a fixed personality trait.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations with irritable (irritable mood, irritable about, feel irritable).
- Note when irritability is likely temporary vs. a trait.
- Practice with reasons: 'because of fatigue,' 'due to stress.'
- Use non-judgmental phrasing when describing someone who is irritable.
- Differentiate irritability from anger or aggression in context.
- Listen for subtle emotion words in conversations to gauge intensity.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'irritable' mean?
A.Easily annoyed or angered
B.Excessively happy
C.Related to making friends
D.Automatically triggered
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'irritable' in a sentence.
A.He was irritable when he was praised for his work.
B.She was irritable after a long day at work.
C.The dog seemed irritable during the sunny afternoon.
D.It's irritable to drive fast.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'irritable'?
A.Angry
B.Happy
C.Generous
D.Friendly
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'irritable'?
A.Aggressive
B.Frustrated
C.Calm
D.Anxious
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might feel irritable?
A.A person enjoying a peaceful day at the beach.
B.A child happily playing with their friends.
C.Someone trying to solve a difficult problem while being interrupted.
D.An adult relaxing at home after a long vacation.
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