What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crankier
Example
My boss has been crankier than usual lately. [crankier: comparative form of cranky]
Example
I'm feeling a bit cranky today, so please bear with me. [cranky: adjective]
testy
Example
Don't ask him any questions right now, he's feeling testy. [testy: adjective]
Example
She became testier and testier as the day went on. [testier: comparative form of testy]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cranky is slightly more common than testy in everyday language, but both words are used relatively infrequently.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crankier and testy?
Testy is slightly more formal than cranky and may be more appropriate in professional or academic settings.
