What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cantankerous
Example
My neighbor is so cantankerous, he always yells at kids playing outside. [cantankerous: adjective]
Example
The cantankerous old man refused to help anyone and was always grumbling. [cantankerous: adjective]
grumpy
Example
My boss is always grumpy in the mornings, so I try to avoid talking to him until he has had his coffee. [grumpy: adjective]
Example
The grumpy old lady next door never smiles and is always scowling. [grumpy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grumpy is more commonly used than cantankerous in everyday language. Grumpy is a familiar term that is widely understood and can be used to describe people of any age. Cantankerous, on the other hand, is less commonly used and has a more specific connotation associated with older individuals.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cantankerous and grumpy?
While cantankerous has a more formal and old-fashioned connotation, grumpy is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
