bitter words

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitter words" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe harsh or resentful remarks made by someone, often in a context of conflict or disagreement. Example: "After the argument, she couldn't shake off the bitter words he had said to her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They had bitter words for yesterday's decision.

The New York Times

So, despite many bitter words, Greece has a second rescue.

The Economist

Bitter words, their sadness sweetened by a bossa nova feel.

The New York Times

"We don't exchange bitter words," one diplomat said.

The New York Times

(For the full effect, see the translation of the brutal, bitter words).

The New Yorker

Outside the boardroom, the bitter words flying around Europe this week will count for little.

The Economist

Waves of unpleasant publicity, including bitter words from Spielberg and Geffen, drowned Eisner's good name.

The New Yorker

Yet behind the bitter words, from both sides, a good deal of co-operation continues.

The Economist

Mr. Thompson's expression was resigned as he listened to Ms. Cheatam's bitter words.

The New York Times

But in the bitter words of a poet: "Never bright, confident morning again".

The New York Times

You remember the slammed doors and bitter words from when you were little," I began.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bitter words" to effectively convey strong feelings of resentment, disappointment, or anger in your writing.

Common error

While "bitter words" is acceptable in news and general writing, avoid using it too frequently in highly formal or academic contexts. Opt for more nuanced and professional language to maintain a balanced tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitter words" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use to describe harsh or resentful remarks exchanged between individuals or directed towards a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bitter words" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe harsh or resentful remarks, typically exchanged during conflicts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase effectively conveys strong negative emotions like anger, disappointment, or resentment. While versatile, overuse in formal settings should be avoided in favor of more nuanced language. Alternatives such as "harsh language" or "resentful remarks" can provide similar meaning with slight variations in emphasis. The phrase's frequency and consistent usage across various sources underscore its importance in expressing intense feelings in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harsh language

Replaces "words" with "language", emphasizing the style of expression.

resentful remarks

Substitutes "bitter" with "resentful" and "words" with "remarks", focusing on the feeling behind the expression.

acrimonious statements

Uses more formal vocabulary to describe hostile declarations.

caustic comments

Emphasizes the stinging or corrosive nature of the remarks.

vitriolic speech

Highlights the extremely bitter and hateful quality of the spoken words.

angry accusations

Focuses on the blaming aspect delivered with anger.

sharp retorts

Implies quick and cutting responses.

scathing criticism

Highlights the severely critical nature of the expression.

rancorous debate

Describes a discussion filled with bitterness and resentment.

heated exchange

Indicates an argument with intense emotion and potentially harsh words.

FAQs

How can I use "bitter words" in a sentence?

You can use "bitter words" to describe harsh or resentful remarks. For example, "After their argument, only "bitter words" were exchanged".

What are some alternatives to "bitter words"?

Alternatives include "harsh language", "resentful remarks", or "acrimonious statements", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "bitter words" in formal writing?

While "bitter words" is generally acceptable, consider the tone and audience. In highly formal contexts, more neutral or precise language might be more appropriate.

What distinguishes "bitter words" from "angry words"?

"Bitter words" implies a deeper sense of resentment and disappointment, while "angry words" primarily focuses on the emotion of anger. "Bitter words" often suggest a lingering sense of hurt or betrayal.