What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
curmudgeonly
Example
The old man down the street is known for his curmudgeonly behavior. [curmudgeonly: adjective]
Example
She always has something negative to say, she's so curmudgeonly. [curmudgeonly: adverb]
cantankerous
Example
My cantankerous neighbor always complains about everything. [cantankerous: adjective]
Example
He became cantankerous when he didn't get his way. [cantankerous: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cantankerous is more commonly used than curmudgeonly in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between curmudgeonly and cantankerous?
Both curmudgeonly and cantankerous are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
