sharpness or bitterness of taste, harshness or severity of manner or expression

Formal and Informal Expressions of acerbity

In different contexts, you can replace 'acerbity' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'harshness, severity' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'bitterness, sharpness' is a commonplace synonym.

acerbity: Explore its Definition & Usage

acerbity Definition

1sharpness or bitterness of taste
2harshness or severity of manner or expression

Using acerbity: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "acerbity" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The acerbity of the lemon made her pucker her lips.
Example
His acerbity towards his colleagues made him unpopular in the office.
Example
The critic's acerbity was evident in his scathing review of the play.

acerbity Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for acerbity

Antonyms for acerbity

Phrases with acerbity

with acerbity
in a sharp, bitter, or harsh manner
Example
She responded to his criticism with acerbity, making it clear she did not appreciate his comments.
acerbity of tongue
the tendency to speak in a sharp, bitter, or harsh manner
Example
Her acerbity of tongue often got her into trouble with her friends and family.
acerbity of wit
the tendency to use sharp, bitter, or harsh language in a humorous or sarcastic way
Example
The comedian's acerbity of wit was a hit with the audience, who laughed at his biting commentary on current events.

Origins of acerbity

from Latin 'acerb' meaning 'sharp, bitter'

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Summary: acerbity in Brief

'Acerbity' [əˈsɜːbɪti] refers to sharpness or bitterness of taste, or harshness or severity of manner or expression. It can describe the taste of a lemon or the tone of someone's speech. Phrases like 'with acerbity' and 'acerbity of tongue' use the term to denote a sharp, bitter, or harsh manner of speaking. 'Acerbity of wit' describes the use of such language in a humorous or sarcastic way.