Bitter: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to describe a strong, often unpleasant taste that can be associated with certain foods or drinks. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a feeling of resentment or distress.

• The coffee is too bitter for my taste
• She felt bitter about the unfair treatment

Describes a taste similar to that of lemon or unripe fruits. It can also metaphorically describe a negative or resentful situation or attitude.

• The milk has gone sour
• Their relationship turned sour after the argument

Used to describe a harsh, strong, and unpleasant smell or taste that is sharp and irritating. It often describes smoke or chemicals.

• The acrid smoke from the fire made it hard to breathe
• The acrid taste of the medicine lingered in his mouth

Describes a strong, acute taste that is often biting or tangy. It can also describe clear, precise, or quick attributes.

• The cheese has a sharp flavor
• She has a sharp mind that grasps concepts quickly

Describes a taste that is pleasantly sharp or acidic, similar to that of certain fruits. It can also describe a manner of speaking that is biting or sarcastic.

• The apple pie was deliciously tart
• She made a tart comment about his tardiness

Usually describes a taste that is slightly bitter and can cause a dry feeling in the mouth. It can also refer to something that is sharp or severe, especially in a critical manner.

• The tea had an astringent flavor that puckered my mouth
• His astringent remarks hurt her feelings

When someone feels deeply hurt or disappointed and holds a lasting grudge.

• He felt bitter after losing his job.
• She became bitter following her divorce.

When someone feels annoyed or angry because they feel they have been treated unfairly.

• He was resentful of his brother's success.
• She felt resentful after being passed over for a promotion.

When someone feels a strong emotion of displeasure or hostility, often in response to a specific event.

• She was angry about the unfair decision.
• He got angry when his car was damaged.

When someone has an unfriendly or unpleasant attitude, often due to past negative experiences.

• His mood turned sour after the argument.
• She has a sour outlook on life after her business failed.

When someone wants something that someone else has, often in terms of possessions, abilities, or achievements.

• He was envious of his friend's new car.
• She felt envious of her coworker's promotion.

When someone has feelings of insecurity or fear over the possibility of losing something they value, often in relationships.

• He was jealous of his girlfriend's male friends.
• She felt jealous when her sister received more attention.

Typically describes a taste that is sharp and often unpleasant, often used for food and drinks.

• The coffee was too bitter for my taste
• The medicine left a bitter aftertaste in my mouth

Generally describes an intense, clear, and often slightly sour taste, frequently used for cheeses and certain fruits.

• The sharpness of the cheddar cheese complemented the savory dish
• The lemon added a pleasant sharpness to the dessert

Refers to a strong and unpleasant taste or smell, often used in a more negative or intense context.

• The acridity of the smoke made it hard to breathe
• There was an acridity to the spoiled food that was overwhelming

Indicates a strong, sharp smell or taste that is often associated with spices and certain foods.

• The pungency of the garlic filled the kitchen
• The cheese's pungency was too strong for some people

Denotes a refreshing and slightly sour taste, commonly applied to fruits and certain desserts.

• The tartness of the cranberries balanced the sweetness of the pie
• The sauce had a delightful tartness that enhanced the flavor of the meat

Describes a taste that is dry and puckering, commonly associated with certain fruits and teas.

• The astringency of the unripe persimmon made it difficult to eat
• Green tea can have a bit of astringency if brewed for too long