What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
irritability
Example
Her irritability made it difficult for her to work with others. [irritability: noun]
Example
He was feeling irritable after a long day at work. [irritable: adjective]
testiness
Example
His testiness was evident when he snapped at his colleague. [testiness: noun]
Example
She was feeling testy after being stuck in traffic for an hour. [testy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irritability is more commonly used in medical or psychological contexts, while testiness is more informal and colloquial.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between irritability and testiness?
Irritability is more formal than testiness, which is more informal and colloquial.
