bitter temper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitter temper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a tendency to be angry or irritable, often in a way that is harsh or resentful. Example: "Her bitter temper often led to conflicts with her colleagues, making it difficult to maintain a harmonious work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I was mean and rebellious and had a terrible, bitter temper.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

As she glided through the slides and quavers of the melodies, she projected a sense of tragedy tempered by affection and bitter humor.

The New York Times - Arts

Mud's version is a pleasure to watch (a lava lamp swirl of brown and white), consume (the combination of steamy frothed milk and cold iced coffee) and taste (a bitter tang tempered by sweet chocolate and rich dairy).

Huffington Post

These ingredients make fine partners for the beers because the saltiness of the cheese, the spice and sourness of the pickles and the earthiness of the bread all temper bitter flavors.

The New York Times

A gathering of e-mails and letters to her closest friends comprise Kathleen Buckstaff's candid, funny, and recognizably true chronicle of a generation "in-between": nurturing its young while nursing its aged, and coming to terms with the bitter realities that temper life's sweet rewards.

Huffington Post

A gathering of e-mails, letters, diary entries, newspaper columns, and holiday bulletins to family and friends, comprise Kathleen Buckstaff's candid, funny, and recognizably true chronicle of a generation "in-between": nurturing its young while nursing its aged, and coming to terms with the bitter realities that temper life's sweet rewards.

Huffington Post

At Esca, David Pasternack, the chef, tempers bitter dandelion greens with an anchovy vinaigrette, then for emphasis, lays white anchovy fillets, marinated in vinegar, atop the salad.

The New York Times - Food

I did learn the following, though: cheese tempers bitter greens in a marvellous way; sherry makes everything taste sophisticated and rich; I must grow more dill; tahini and yoghurt is the perfect marriage for herbs; and old jerusalem artichokes are a revelation in the hands of a fine cook.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When cacao was later exported to the Old World, its bitter taste was tempered with milk and vanilla, nutmeg, sugar and cinnamon.

Los Angeles Times

The NoMad's cocktail list is both classic and inventive, with many drinks tempered by bitter European herbal liqueurs.

The New York Times

Instead of a rich meat tempered with fragrant bitter orange, my duck à l'orange was half a cheap roasted bird garnished with a chunk of raw fruit.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's personality in fiction, using "bitter temper" can quickly convey a sense of underlying resentment or unhappiness that fuels their anger. Consider pairing it with specific triggers to show, not just tell, their disposition.

Common error

Avoid using "bitter temper" when a simpler term like "bad temper" suffices. The "bitter" aspect implies a deeper, perhaps resentful, source of the anger, not just general irritability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitter temper" functions as a descriptor, specifically characterizing a person's disposition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English, highlighting its capacity to convey a tendency to be angry or irritable, often fueled by harshness or resentment. Examples show its use in describing personality traits.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bitter temper" effectively describes a disposition characterized by anger stemming from underlying resentment, is grammatically correct and usable in written English according to Ludwig. It's a concise way to depict a character or person prone to irritability fueled by deeper negativity. While not overly formal, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, primarily found in news and media. Alternatives include "irritable disposition" or "ill-tempered", depending on the desired nuance. Understanding the 'bitter' component is key to using the phrase accurately, implying more than just a general bad temper.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ill-tempered

A more formal and direct synonym for having a bad temper.

short fuse

A common idiom that means someone gets angry very quickly.

quick to anger

Simply indicates that someone gets angry easily and rapidly.

easily provoked

Focuses on the ease with which someone can be triggered into anger or irritation.

irritable disposition

Focuses on the underlying tendency to become easily annoyed, rather than the outward expression of anger.

angry demeanor

Emphasizes the outward presentation of anger in one's behavior and manner.

sour disposition

Suggests a general negativity and unpleasantness in one's attitude.

volatile personality

Highlights the instability and potential for sudden outbursts of anger.

fiery nature

Implies a passionate and intense character, prone to strong emotions.

bad attitude

Describes a generally negative and uncooperative disposition.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with a "bitter temper"?

You might describe them as having an "irritable disposition", being "quick to anger", or possessing a "volatile personality", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "bitter temper" in formal writing?

Yes, "bitter temper" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing a character or situation where underlying resentment contributes to displays of anger. However, consider whether a more direct term like "ill-tempered" might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between a "bitter temper" and a "bad temper"?

While both describe a propensity for anger, "bitter temper" suggests that the anger stems from deeper resentment or disappointment. A "bad temper" is a more general term for someone who gets angry easily without necessarily implying underlying bitterness.

Can "bitter temper" be used to describe objects or situations?

No, "bitter temper" is typically used to describe a person's disposition. For objects or situations, "bitter" might describe a taste or experience, but not a "temper".