How to Memorize

testy - irritable

Analysis

Somebody who is ‘testy’ is typically impatient and quick to anger, often over trivial things. Unlike some similar meaning words, it does not necessarily imply a character flaw or something innate. A person can become testy in a moment of frustration or after a long and busy day. Either way, such behaviour elicits a strongly negative reaction from others.

Example(s)

1. After a long day at work, I am often testy when I get home which can be difficult for my family to cope with.

2. My review with my boss got quite testy. I felt that she was being overly confrontational and responded defensively.

3. Gary does not like being criticized and reacted testily when I offered my honest opinion of his work.