irritating
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈɪrɪteɪtɪŋ/
KK: /ˈɪrɪˌteɪtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing annoyance or discomfort to someone.
Example
The loud music was very irritating during the movie.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more irritating
Superlative: most irritating
Conversation
Have you noticed how irritating that noise from the construction site can be?
Absolutely! It's hard to concentrate with all that banging.
I know, right? It's especially irritating when I’m trying to study.
Exactly! I can't wait for them to finish.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
annoying
vexing
exasperating
Antonyms
soothing
pleasing
calming
verb
Definition
To cause someone to feel annoyed or angry.
Example
The loud music was irritating everyone in the room.
Tense Forms
Past: irritated
Past Participle: irritated
Conversation
I find it really irritating when people interrupt me while I'm speaking.
I totally get that; it's so disrespectful!
Yeah, it makes it hard to finish my thoughts.
Root Explanation
Irritating → It is formed from "irritare" (meaning to provoke or annoy) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "irritating" describes the action of provoking annoyance or discomfort.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'provokes' ('irritare') annoyance — that's why we say something is irritating when it bothers us.
Visually Confused Words
unirritating
nonirritating
abirritation