What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crabby
Example
Don't talk to him right now, he's feeling crabby. [crabby: adjective]
Example
She's always so crabby in the morning before she has her coffee. [crabby: adjective]
grumpy
Example
He's been grumpy all day, I don't know what's bothering him. [grumpy: adjective]
Example
She's always so grumpy when it's raining outside. [grumpy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grumpy is more commonly used than crabby in everyday language, especially in British English. However, both words are informal and casual in tone and can be used interchangeably in most contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crabby and grumpy?
Neither crabby nor grumpy are formal words, and both are considered informal and casual in tone. They are best used in casual conversations or informal writing.
