What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aggravate
Example
Please don't aggravate the situation by arguing with him. [aggravate: verb]
Example
The loud music is aggravating my headache. [aggravating: present participle]
irritate
Example
The sound of the dog barking is starting to irritate me. [irritate: verb]
Example
The pollen in the air is irritating my eyes. [irritating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irritate is more commonly used than aggravate in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Aggravate is more formal and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aggravate and irritate?
Aggravate is more formal and less commonly used in everyday language than irritate. Therefore, irritate is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
