What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grouchy
Example
Don't talk to him right now, he's feeling grouchy. [grouchy: adjective]
Example
She woke up on the wrong side of the bed and has been grouchy all day. [grouchy: adjective]
cranky
Example
He gets really cranky when he's hungry. [cranky: adjective]
Example
The baby was cranky and wouldn't stop crying. [cranky: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grouchy is more commonly used than cranky in everyday language. Grouchy is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while cranky is more specific and often used to describe children or babies.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grouchy and cranky?
Both grouchy and cranky are informal and casual in tone, and are not typically used in formal contexts.
