a source of irritation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of irritation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes annoyance or discomfort to someone. Example: "The constant noise from the construction site became a source of irritation for the residents living nearby."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Video piracy is also a source of irritation.

The New York Times

We're sure that must be a source of irritation.

The Washington Post

The film version of "Brokeback Mountain" is a source of irritation for Annie Proulx.

The New Yorker

Wide spreads on the Nasdaq have long been a source of irritation for investors.

The New York Times

As such, the show represents a source of irritation more than a serious danger to Trump.

The New Yorker

But it can also be a source of irritation, especially when they get it wrong.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

It is a source of continual irritation to him that so few surveys do this.

The New Yorker

Don't ask Wainwright – it's a mystery to him, and a source of some irritation.

Independent

5. Christie was a source of repeated irritation to Mitt Romney during the latter's failed presidential bid.

The Guardian

That they have to even talk about socialism is probably a source of great irritation for conservatives.

The Washington Post

This transition from "nicotine culture to cellular culture", the way "smoke pollution became sonic pollution", is not just a source of fogeyish irritation.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a source of irritation", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is it a minor annoyance, a persistent frustration, or something in between? Choose synonyms or related phrases to fine-tune your meaning.

Common error

While "a source of irritation" is a valid phrase, avoid using it repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Variety in your vocabulary will make your writing more engaging and precise. Consider using alternatives like "a cause for annoyance" or "a point of frustration".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of irritation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies the origin or cause of annoyance or displeasure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

18%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a source of irritation" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe something that causes annoyance or displeasure. As verified by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using this phrase, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and explore related terms to enrich your vocabulary. Avoid overuse to maintain writing clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a source of aggravation

Synonymous, but puts a greater emphasis on the act of aggravation.

a cause for annoyance

Focuses more on the act of causing annoyance rather than the inherent quality of being irritating.

a point of frustration

Highlights the feeling of being frustrated, suggesting a sense of helplessness or difficulty in resolving the issue.

an aggravation

Emphasizes the worsening or intensification of an already negative situation.

a nuisance

Implies a minor inconvenience or petty annoyance.

a vexation

Suggests a more prolonged or persistent state of annoyance.

an irritant

Highlights something that causes physical or metaphorical irritation.

a bothersome thing

A more informal and general way to describe something annoying.

an unwelcome aspect

Focuses on the undesirability of something rather than its irritating nature.

a trigger for discontent

Emphasizes the role of the irritant in causing unhappiness.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a source of irritation" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "a cause of concern", "a point of contention", or "a matter of dispute". These phrases convey a similar meaning but with a more serious and professional tone.

What are some less formal synonyms for "a source of irritation"?

For informal settings, you might use phrases like "a pain", "a hassle", or "a bother". These options are more conversational and relatable.

Is there a difference between "a source of irritation" and "a source of frustration"?

While similar, "a source of irritation" suggests something that causes annoyance, whereas "a source of frustration" implies something that hinders progress or causes a feeling of helplessness. The choice depends on the specific context. You can check also "a point of frustration".

How to use "a source of irritation" in a sentence?

You can use the phrase to describe something that causes annoyance or discomfort. For example: "The constant noise from the construction site became "a source of irritation" for the residents living nearby".