become angry with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become angry with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a change in emotion towards someone or something that causes anger. Example: "She began to become angry with her colleague for not completing his part of the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Only once did George become angry with me.

The New York Times - Sports

The blacks who kill will become angry with the Mexicans who cut, who in turn will become angry with the white superintendents who push them.

The New York Times

"I would become angry with Tony, frustrated with his helplessness," William says.

The New Yorker

He had already become angry with his bodyguards for trying to keep him out of the sea in 1955.

The Economist

In her deposition, Judge Holland said she had lately become angry with Mr. Hood's lawyers for "annihilating my reputation".

The New York Times

Its share price has languished and shareholders have become angry with a board of directors they claim is too timid.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

"I became angry with humans".

The New York Times - Magazine

Her mother became angry with her more often.

The New Yorker

"I never became angry with God," he says.

The New York Times - Magazine

One reader shared a story of an assistant manager who became angry with an employee.

The New York Times - Health

Three days later, Ms. Kelly apparently became angry with Elijah for defying her order to stay upstairs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "become angry with", consider the context to determine if a more nuanced synonym might better convey the specific shade of emotion. For example, "become frustrated with" might be more accurate if the anger stems from a sense of helplessness or thwarted goals.

Common error

Avoid using "become angry with" excessively in highly formal or professional writing. Opt for alternatives like "express dissatisfaction with" or "take issue with" to maintain a more polished and objective tone. Save "become angry with" for contexts where the emotional aspect is relevant and appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become angry with" functions as a verb phrase expressing a change of emotional state. It indicates the process of transitioning into a state of anger directed toward a specific person, object, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "become angry with" is a versatile phrase used to describe the development of anger towards someone or something. Ludwig AI validates it as correct and usable in English, with a neutral register suitable for various contexts, particularly news and media. While synonymous with phrases like ""get mad at"" or ""become frustrated with"", choosing the most appropriate alternative depends on the specific nuance and intensity of emotion you wish to convey. Overusing it in formal contexts should be avoided; instead, opt for alternatives that maintain a more objective tone. The phrase appears commonly in news, wiki and scientific articles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow angry with

Implies a gradual increase in anger, similar to "become angry with" but emphasizes the process.

get mad at

More informal and direct way of expressing anger towards someone or something.

become infuriated with

Indicates a higher degree of anger than "become angry with".

become frustrated with

Highlights the frustration leading to anger, focusing on the cause of the emotion.

become annoyed with

Suggests a milder form of anger, more akin to irritation.

lose patience with

Focuses on the loss of tolerance, leading to anger or frustration.

take exception to

A more formal way of expressing disagreement and resentment.

be displeased with

A polite and understated way of showing dissatisfaction and potential anger.

flare up at

Implies a sudden outburst of anger, rather than a gradual build-up.

bristle at

Indicates a defensive reaction of anger, often in response to something offensive.

FAQs

How can I use "become angry with" in a sentence?

You can use "become angry with" to express a growing feeling of anger towards someone or something. For example, "She began to become angry with her colleague for constantly interrupting her."

What are some alternatives to "become angry with"?

Alternatives include "get mad at", "become frustrated with", or "become annoyed with", depending on the intensity of the emotion you want to convey.

Is it better to say "become angry at" or "become angry with"?

Both "become angry at" and "become angry with" are grammatically correct and commonly used. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey. "Become angry with" might suggest a slightly more prolonged or considered emotion.

What's the difference between "become angry with" and "become furious with"?

"Become angry with" suggests a general feeling of anger, while "become furious with" indicates a much stronger, more intense level of anger. The choice depends on the degree of emotion you wish to express.