ill humor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ill humor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being in a bad mood or having a negative disposition. Example: "After receiving the disappointing news, he was in such ill humor that he didn't want to talk to anyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

But the dominant impression was awkward ill humor.

The New Yorker

Even Harry Potter had his moments of anger, moroseness and ill humor.

The New York Times - Magazine

A speech Sunday by Alan Greenspan, the former Fed chairman, added to the market's ill humor.

The New York Times

Broad-brush accounts of Vivaldi's life dwell on his vanity, boastfulness and ill humor.

The New York Times - Arts

(In Homer's words, the drug "banishes all care, sorrow and ill humor").

The New York Times - Books

With ill humor, they returned to the all-too-familiar routines: take out the flashlights, bundle up and, of course, call the utility to complain.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

So do medical concerns, though they have changed their idiom — from the Galenic "breeding of ill humors" to modern worries about, say, the accumulation of cholesterol plaques.

The New Yorker

The explanation for Erdogan's flash of ill-humor, I think, is his realization that the peace process could still founder and his legacy go up in smoke.

The New York Times

"No Hiding Place," a song about the loss of dignity in the world, flashes the wit and ill-humor of his younger days, though this is a middle-aged man's complaint.

The New York Times

("Here she fretted out all her ill-humors, and talked aloud to the worm-eaten floors and the worm-eaten shelves," Eliot writes of Maggie).

The New Yorker

Although none of the three specifically define the term, "American exceptionalism" conveys three wrong or empty ideas: that Americans are blessed with morally superior DNA which immunizes them from the vices or ill-humors of human nature; that the history of the United States is morally irreproachable; or, that the United States, despite its warts, is less immoral than other wretched countries.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ill humor" to describe a pervasive and noticeable negative mood, especially when it affects interactions with others.

Common error

Avoid using "ill humor" in casual conversation; simpler terms like "bad mood" or "grumpy" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ill humor" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state or quality of being in a negative or unpleasant mood, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ill humor" is a valid and commonly used noun phrase that describes a state of being in a bad mood or displaying irritability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its frequent appearance in news and media sources. While "bad mood" and "grumpy" may be suitable replacements in casual contexts, "ill humor" adds a layer of formality and is best used when describing a pervasive negative mood that impacts interactions. Remember to avoid overusing this phrase in informal settings to maintain appropriate register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bad mood

This alternative is a more common and general way to describe a temporary state of unhappiness or irritability.

bad temper

This alternative emphasizes the aspect of uncontrolled anger or irritability.

irritability

This alternative focuses on the tendency to become easily annoyed or angered.

surliness

This alternative describes a rude and unfriendly disposition.

crankiness

This alternative suggests a state of being grumpy and difficult to please, especially due to tiredness or illness.

grouchiness

This alternative indicates a habitually grumpy and complaining demeanor.

displeasure

This alternative denotes a feeling of dissatisfaction or disapproval.

resentment

This alternative implies a feeling of bitterness or indignation at having been treated unfairly.

testiness

This alternative describes a state of impatience and irritability, often expressed in a sharp or abrupt manner.

peevishness

This alternative indicates a state of being easily irritated, especially by unimportant things.

FAQs

What does "ill humor" mean?

"Ill humor" refers to a state of being in a bad mood, displaying irritability, or having a generally negative disposition. It's often used to describe someone who is easily annoyed or unpleasant to be around.

How can I use "ill humor" in a sentence?

You can use "ill humor" to describe someone's mood or behavior. For example: "His "ill humor" was evident in his short replies and frown."

Which is a better choice, "ill humor" or "bad mood"?

While both phrases convey a negative emotional state, "bad mood" is more common and general. "Ill humor" is a slightly more formal or literary term. Depending on your audience and the context, "bad mood" might be a better choice.

What are some synonyms for "ill humor"?

Some synonyms for "ill humor" include "bad mood", "bad temper", "irritability", and "surliness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.