shorter fuse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shorter fuse" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is more easily angered or has a lower tolerance for frustration. Example: "After a long day at work, I found myself with a shorter fuse than usual, snapping at my friends over minor issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Here, everyone has a much shorter fuse".

The New York Times

Obama has repeatedly demonstrated strategic patience on Iran; Trump has a shorter fuse.

The New Yorker

He has a much shorter fuse about such things and provides me with a rational outlook.

The Guardian

He stopped drinking as much, which was welcome, although he developed a shorter fuse.

The Guardian

They muster beneath the Gateway Arch, a symbol of hope for any low-round draft choice or long-lost prospect who wore out his welcome in a larger market with a shorter fuse.

The New York Times - Sports

"There is clearly a much shorter fuse on the part of investors and media and regulators when they see any hint of improper behavior," says Schacht.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

It gives us jutting edges, awkward angles and shorter fuses.

Independent

"I don't know if people have shorter fuses or what; it's just too early to tell".

The New York Times

He has a pretty short fuse.

The New York Times

Santoro simply outlasted Safin's short fuse.

The New York Times - Sports

My father had a very short fuse.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's general character, use "shorter fuse" to indicate a habitual tendency to anger quickly. For example: "He's a good worker, but he has a "shorter fuse" when dealing with stressful situations."

Common error

Avoid using "shorter fuse" to excuse overtly aggressive behavior. While it explains a tendency to become angry easily, it doesn't justify actions taken in anger. Use it to describe a predisposition, not to excuse inappropriate behavior.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shorter fuse" functions as a noun phrase describing a characteristic or attribute, specifically, the tendency to become angry or irritated quickly. This is supported by Ludwig AI which confirms the correct usage of the phrase in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shorter fuse" is a common and accepted way to describe someone who is easily angered or has a low tolerance for frustration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. While it is a useful descriptor, it's important not to use it as an excuse for aggressive behavior. Alternative phrases like "quick temper" or "low tolerance for frustration" can also be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. It appears most frequently in News & Media, reflecting its relevance in describing people's reactions to events and stress.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quick temper

Focuses on the speed of anger arousal rather than the threshold.

low tolerance for frustration

Emphasizes the inability to handle frustration without getting upset.

easily angered

Directly states the ease with which someone becomes angry.

irascible nature

A more formal and less common way of describing a tendency to be easily provoked to anger.

volatile disposition

Highlights the unpredictable and potentially explosive nature of someone's temper.

hair trigger temper

Implies that very little is needed to set off someone's anger.

impatient

Focuses on a lack of patience, which can contribute to a "shorter fuse".

thin-skinned

Describes someone who is easily offended or upset by criticism.

on edge

Suggests a state of heightened tension that can lead to a "shorter fuse".

testy temperament

A more formal way of describing a tendency to be irritable or easily annoyed.

FAQs

What does it mean to have a "shorter fuse"?

Having a "shorter fuse" means that someone gets angry or irritated more easily and quickly than others. It implies a low tolerance for frustration or annoyance.

What are some signs that someone has a "shorter fuse"?

Signs include frequent outbursts of anger, irritability over minor issues, impatience, and difficulty coping with stress. They might also exhibit a "quick temper".

Is it possible to lengthen your "fuse"?

Yes, strategies like mindfulness, stress management techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help individuals develop greater emotional regulation and patience, effectively lengthening their "fuse".

What can I say instead of "shorter fuse"?

You can use alternatives like "quick temper", "low tolerance for frustration", or "easily angered" depending on the context.