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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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peevishness

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "peevishness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being irritable or easily annoyed, often in a petty or childish manner. Example: "Her peevishness was evident when she complained about the smallest inconveniences throughout the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The return to the frustrations and reverses of everyday diplomacy is uncomfortable, no doubt; and if America withdraws or lapses into peevishness, dangerous as well.

News & Media

The Economist

And German women all too often accept the negative image of working mothers by shying away from top jobs.In this section The ever lengthening road Delay, delay A plague on both your houses Popular peevishness Candidate inflation Still a man's world A European values debate ReprintsTradition makes things worse.

News & Media

The Economist

Without support from the UDC, the centre-right is doomed to perpetual opposition.In this section The ever lengthening road Delay, delay A plague on both your houses Popular peevishness Candidate inflation Still a man's world A European values debate Reprints Related items Spain's bickering opposition: Popular peevishnessDec 7th 2006Why is Mr Casini rebelling?

News & Media

The Economist

This caused mounting fury among those who liked the constitution (Belgium's soon-to-depart prime minister threw the loudest tantrum, shouting at the Dutch that they were "hollowing out" the European project).Such peevishness was irrational, in one sense: Belgium wanted the constitution and got a text pretty much like it, albeit spattered in footnotes.

News & Media

The Economist

As the evidence leant towards the second, voters who had been ready to vote for the PP shifted.In this section The ever lengthening road Delay, delay A plague on both your houses Popular peevishness Candidate inflation Still a man's world A European values debate ReprintsProsecutors and police are now convinced that only radical Muslims were involved.

News & Media

The Economist

Is the politics of morality becoming more widespread in Europe (just as, ironically, it may be becoming less influential in America)?In this section The ever lengthening road Delay, delay A plague on both your houses Popular peevishness Candidate inflation Still a man's world A European values debate ReprintsAs a general rule, "moral politics" comes to the fore in two possible ways.

News & Media

The Economist

Though it began in puns and peevishness, it warmed up during the 19th century with John Leech, Charles Keene, George Du Maurier, and in the 20th century with George Belcher, "Fougasse" (Kenneth Bird), H.M. Bateman, Nicolas Bentley, E.H. Shepard, and Osbert Lancaster.

The peevishness seems such a schoolboy error on Campbell's part: much more stylish to have laughed along, or else to have risen above it and maintained an Olympian silence.

News & Media

Independent

Sometimes, however, it is Bloomberg's own peevishness that distracts from pressing issues, as was the case with Governor Paterson's announcement of a marriage-equality bill, in April.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Ravi and Tam also found questions about anti-virus software and contributions to a Web site of counter-revolutionary peevishness called Anythingbutipod.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Henry, a self-described "intellectual playwright," responds to Charlotte's wry peevishness with light, self-involved talk that goes on and on.

News & Media

The New Yorker
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "peevishness" to specifically describe a state of being easily irritated or annoyed, especially over trivial matters. This word effectively conveys a sense of pettiness and ill-temper.

Common error

Avoid using "peevishness" when describing intense anger or rage. "Peevishness" implies a milder, more petty form of irritation, not outright fury.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

92%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "peevishness" is as a noun. It refers to the state or quality of being peevish, denoting a condition of irritability or annoyance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Peevishness" is a noun denoting a state of irritability or annoyance, often concerning trivial matters. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is grammatically sound and frequently used. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, with neutral to formal register. Its function is to describe a specific negative mood, and related terms include ""irritability"" and ""petulance"". A key writing tip is to avoid using "peevishness" when a stronger emotion like anger is intended. This word offers precision when describing a mild but noticeable state of irritation.

FAQs

How can I accurately use "peevishness" in a sentence?

Use "peevishness" to describe a state of being easily irritated or annoyed, often about minor things. For example, "His "peevishness" was triggered by the slightest delay".

What are some synonyms for "peevishness"?

Alternatives to "peevishness" include "irritability", "petulance", and "querulousness", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it appropriate to use "peevishness" in formal writing?

"Peevishness" can be used in formal writing, but consider the context. While grammatically correct, it may sometimes sound less formal than alternatives like ""irritability"" or "discontent".

What's the difference between "peevishness" and "anger"?

"Peevishness" implies a milder form of annoyance and irritation, often over trivial matters. "Anger" is a stronger, more intense emotion. Someone exhibiting "peevishness" might complain about minor inconveniences, while someone experiencing anger might express outrage or rage.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: