What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bother
Example
Please don't bother me while I'm studying. [bother: verb]
Example
The loud noise from the construction site is bothering me. [bothering: gerund or present participle]
irritate
Example
Her constant complaining really irritates me. [irritates: verb]
Example
The mosquito bite is irritating and itchy. [irritating: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bother is more commonly used than irritate in everyday language. Bother is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while irritate is less common and may be used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bother and irritate?
While bother is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, irritate can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
