What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
annoying
Example
The constant buzzing of the mosquito was so annoying. [annoying: adjective]
Example
Her loud chewing at the dinner table was really annoying. [annoying: gerund or present participle]
irritating
Example
The sound of nails scratching on a chalkboard is extremely irritating. [irritating: adjective]
Example
His constant interruptions during the meeting were really irritating. [irritating: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Annoying is more commonly used than irritating in everyday language. Annoying is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while irritating is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between annoying and irritating?
Both annoying and irritating can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, irritating may sound slightly more formal due to its stronger connotation.
