irritating
word · lemma: irritate
Definition
Irritating describes something that makes you feel annoyed or uncomfortable. It can refer to people, sounds, behaviors, or even physical sensations that bother you.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both spoken and written English. Typical collocations: 'irritating noise', 'irritating habit', 'irritating person'. Less intense than 'infuriating' or 'enraging', but stronger than 'annoying' in some contexts. Can describe physical irritation (like on skin), but is most often used for emotions.
Example Sentences
The wool sweater feels irritating on my skin.
basic
That loud alarm is very irritating.
basic
He has an irritating habit of interrupting people.
basic
Nothing is more irritating than being stuck in traffic when you're late.
natural
I find pop-up ads on websites really irritating.
natural
Her constant complaining is getting irritating.
natural