What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
moody
Example
She's been moody all day, I think something is bothering her. [moody: adjective]
Example
The weather has made him moody and irritable. [moody: adjective]
temperamental
Example
He's very temperamental and can be difficult to work with. [temperamental: adjective]
Example
The artist's creative process is often influenced by her temperamental nature. [temperamental: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Moody is more common in everyday language than temperamental. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while temperamental is more formal and less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between moody and temperamental?
Temperamental is more formal than moody and is typically used in more professional or academic settings. It suggests a higher degree of unpredictability and instability than moody, which can make it sound more negative or critical.