What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crotchety
Example
My grandfather can be quite crotchety when he doesn't get his way. [crotchety: adjective]
Example
She's always been a bit crotchety, but lately, it seems like everything bothers her. [crotchety: adjective]
cross
Example
Don't talk to him right now, he's feeling cross. [cross: adjective]
Example
She was cross with me for forgetting her birthday. [cross: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cross is more commonly used than crotchety in everyday language. Cross is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while crotchety is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crotchety and cross?
Both crotchety and cross are informal terms that are not typically used in formal writing or speech.