harsh temper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harsh temper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is easily angered or has a tendency to react with anger. Example: "Despite his many talents, his harsh temper often alienated his colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Nay, let me answer for you, that in a few this harsh temper may be found but not in the majority of mankind.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Participants later reported that, when the subject of disproportionate police force was broached, the Prime Minister turned to the actor and said, "As you must know, the Lawmaker Süleyman also had a harsh temper".

The New Yorker

After the disclosure, more of his aides came forward to accuse Mr. Farenthold of fostering a hostile environment, describing a congressman with a harsh temper who made sexually explicit jokes and engaged in casual sexual banter.

The New York Times

The emphasis in his biography is on Cash's religious faith (his publisher specializes in "books emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes"), and though Turner does not shy away from Cash's drug abuse and harsh temper, he opts for the sunny side and thus paints a somewhat rose-tinted portrait.

The Washington Post

Enrique (aka Henri) juggles ESL classes at Peralta Middle School and responsibilities at home babysitting his three baby brothers, all the while trying to avoid the gangs that plague his neighborhood, not to mention his stepfather's harsh temper.

Johns Hopkins University

Probable explanations include Henry's persistent interference in Aquitaine, his recognition of Raymond of Toulouse in 1173, or his harsh temper.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Apart from the Brandt commission on international development and north-south relations (1977-83), wasch was out of touch with the harsher temper of the times, he undertook few big public tasks, preferring to become what his lieutenant, Ian Gilmour, later called "the most distinguished backbencher since Richard Cobden" the Victorian apostle of free trade.

The Guardian

The result is a more balanced, centered sound, with the hall's harsh acoustics tempered and the bass strengthened.

The New Yorker

In this respect, Xi is a true disciple of Deng Xiaoping, albeit in these less harsh, more tempered times.

HuffPost

Also don't forget to use your flash in bright daylight to temper harsh shadows.

The New York Times

López tempers the harsh urban circumstances with gentle humor and by portraying the world through Enrique's innocent and untainted perspective (in fact, Enrique sometimes seems younger than a typical middle-schooler).

Johns Hopkins University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character, provide specific examples of their "harsh temper" to make the description more vivid and believable. For instance, instead of simply stating that someone has a "harsh temper", illustrate it with an anecdote about their reaction to a minor inconvenience.

Common error

Avoid using "harsh temper" when you mean to convey strength of character or determination. While a person with a "strong will" might be resolute, someone with a "harsh temper" is prone to anger and irritability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh temper" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "harsh" modifies the noun "temper". It typically serves to describe a characteristic or quality of an individual, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

17%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "harsh temper" is a valid and usable term in English, effectively describing someone prone to anger or irritability. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and appears in various sources, including news articles, academic texts, and encyclopedias. While the phrase is relatively common, it's important to use it appropriately, distinguishing it from related concepts like strength of will. Consider alternatives like "bad temper" or "irascible nature" depending on the specific context. Remember, using specific examples is key to illustrating a character's "harsh temper" effectively in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bad temper

Focuses on the negative aspect of the temper, implying it is unpleasant or difficult to manage. High semantic similarity.

fiery disposition

Suggests a passionate and easily ignited nature, differing slightly by emphasizing the intensity of emotion.

irascible nature

Emphasizes a tendency to become easily angered, shifting the focus to inherent character.

quick to anger

Highlights the speed with which someone becomes angry, differing by emphasizing the immediacy of the reaction.

explosive personality

Implies sudden and intense outbursts of anger, differing by emphasizing the unpredictability of reactions.

volatile temperament

Suggests instability and unpredictable emotional shifts, differing by emphasizing the fluctuating nature of emotions.

difficult temperament

Focuses on the challenges of dealing with the temper, differing by emphasizing the impact on others.

severe disposition

Emphasizes the strict or stern qualities of the character, differing slightly by suggesting inflexibility.

brutal nature

Suggests a ruthless or unforgiving character, differing by implying a lack of compassion.

choleric humor

Refers to a historical concept of bodily humors influencing temperament, differing by drawing on outdated medical theory.

FAQs

What does "harsh temper" mean?

"Harsh temper" describes a tendency to become easily angered or to react with anger in a severe or uncontrolled way.

What are some synonyms for "harsh temper"?

Alternatives include "bad temper", "fiery disposition", or "irascible nature". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How can I describe the effects of a "harsh temper"?

A "harsh temper" can lead to strained relationships, a hostile environment, and difficulty in resolving conflicts constructively.

Is it ever appropriate to use "harsh temper" in a positive light?

Generally, no. "Harsh temper" carries primarily negative connotations. It suggests an undesirable quality. Describing it neutrally depends greatly on the context.