of pique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of pique" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a feeling of irritation or annoyance, often in response to a perceived slight or offense. Example: "She left the meeting in a huff, clearly in a state of pique over the comments made about her presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Displays of pique are displays of weakness.

The New Yorker

He was prone to eruptions of pique.

The New Yorker

A fit of pique or mere disappointment?

The New York Times - Sports

Her display of pique began with the first points.

The New York Times - Sports

He works himself up into another small fit of pique.

The New York Times - Books

In a fit of pique, he resigned on air.

The Guardian

Not a fit of pique because the Corporation was mean about one of his sons?

Independent

He has just dismissed his eldest daughter, Goneril (Angela Pierce), in a fit of pique.

The New Yorker

And Mr. Romney has had flashes of pique in past debates as well.

The New York Times

Lennon's chords, pounded out in a fit of pique, make up the song's now-famous opening.

The New York Times

All three countries have resorted to threats and displays of pique to make their points.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "of pique" to describe actions or decisions motivated by sudden irritation or resentment, ensuring the context clearly indicates the cause of the pique. For example, "He resigned in a fit of pique after the argument."

Common error

Avoid confusing "pique" (irritation) with "peak" (highest point). Using "peak" instead of "pique" will completely change the meaning of your sentence and make it nonsensical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of pique" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate the cause or motivation behind an action or state. It specifies that something is done or felt as a result of irritation or resentment. As Ludwig confirms, its usage is correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of pique" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe actions or feelings motivated by irritation or resentment. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. It is particularly prevalent in news and media contexts. While alternative phrases like "out of annoyance" or "in a fit of resentment" exist, "of pique" offers a concise and effective way to convey this specific emotional motivation. When using the phrase, ensure clarity in the context to avoid misinterpretation and consider alternative phrasing to prevent monotonous writing. Always remember the difference between "pique" and "peak" to avoid embarrassing mistakes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of annoyance

Highlights the feeling of being bothered or disturbed.

in a state of irritation

Focuses on the feeling of being annoyed or provoked.

in a fit of resentment

Emphasizes the feeling of injustice or bitterness.

with vexation

Highlights the feeling of being worried or annoyed.

in a huff

Implies a display of petulance or bad temper.

in a disgruntled mood

Emphasizes dissatisfaction and discontent.

in a snit

Describes a sulky or bad-tempered mood.

with ill humor

Indicates a bad-tempered or irritable state.

in a petulant manner

Focuses on the childishly sulky or bad-tempered behavior.

in a bad mood

Refers to an unhappy or irritable state of mind.

FAQs

How can I use "of pique" in a sentence?

You can use "of pique" to describe an action or decision made out of irritation or resentment. For example, "She made the decision in a moment "of pique"."

What's the difference between "of pique" and "of resentment"?

"Of pique" implies a sudden feeling of irritation, while "of resentment" ("of resentment") suggests a lingering feeling of bitterness or injustice.

What are some alternatives to "of pique"?

Some alternatives include "out of annoyance" ("out of annoyance"), "in a fit of irritation", or "in a state of vexation".

Is it appropriate to use "of pique" in formal writing?

Yes, "of pique" is suitable for formal writing. While it describes a negative emotion, the phrase itself is grammatically correct and widely understood.