What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
irk
Example
The constant noise from the construction site really irks me. [irk: verb]
Example
It really irks me when people don't clean up after themselves. [irk: verb]
annoy
Example
The sound of the dog barking next door is starting to annoy me. [annoy: verb]
Example
It's annoying when my phone keeps buzzing with notifications. [annoying: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Annoy is more commonly used than irk in everyday language. Annoy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while irk is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between irk and annoy?
Irk is generally considered more formal or literary than annoy, which is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
