Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Bitterness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😠
Add to dictionary

bitterness

[ˈbɪtərnəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

feeling

The quality or state of being bitter; intense animosity, resentment, or hostility.

Synonyms

animosity, hostility, resentment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bitterness

Bitterness is often used to describe a deep, lingering feeling of sadness and anger, usually due to a perceived wrong or injustice over a long period.

  • He felt bitterness after losing the promotion to his less experienced colleague
resentment

Resentment describes a feeling of anger or displeasure about something that you believe to be unfair. This emotion is often hidden and can build up over time.

  • He couldn’t hide his resentment when he found out he was being paid less than his co-workers
hostility

Hostility involves unfriendly and aggressive behavior or attitudes. It is usually overt and can manifest in actions or words.

  • Her hostility was evident when she refused to speak to him during the meeting
animosity

Animosity refers to strong hostility or active dislike. It often suggests open conflict or tension between people or groups.

  • There was clear animosity between the two rival teams during the match

Examples of usage

  • He spoke with bitterness about the way he had been treated.
  • Her bitterness towards her former boss was evident in her tone of voice.
Context #2 | Noun

taste

A sharp or unpleasant taste; the quality of having a sharp, pungent flavor.

Synonyms

acridity, pungency, sharpness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
bitterness

Used to describe a feeling of deep anger, resentment, or grief. It can also describe a sharp, unpleasant taste.

  • She couldn't hide the bitterness in her voice after the unfair treatment.
  • The bitterness of the coffee was too strong for me.
sharpness

Can describe a keen edge, an intense or stimulating taste or smell, or a quick-witted or severe remark. It has a broader use compared to other synonyms.

  • The sharpness of the knife made cutting vegetables easy.
  • She was startled by the sharpness of his reply.
  • He likes the sharpness of mature cheddar.
pungency

Denotes a strong, sharp smell or taste, not necessarily unpleasant. Often used with foods or spices.

  • The pungency of the garlic filled the kitchen.
  • He enjoys the pungency of blue cheese.
acridity

Refers to a sharp, biting smell or taste, often unpleasant. Commonly used in contexts describing smoke, chemicals, or strong odors.

  • The acridity of the burning rubber made it hard to breathe.
  • There was an acridity to the air in the chemical plant.

Examples of usage

  • The bitterness of the coffee lingered on his palate.
  • She couldn't stand the bitterness of the medicine.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Emotional Psychology

  • Feelings of bitterness can arise from perceived injustices or unresolved conflicts, making it important to address these emotions.
  • Studies suggest that prolonged bitterness can negatively affect mental health, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
  • People may hold onto bitterness as a defense mechanism, protecting themselves from further hurt.

Literature

  • In many novels and poems, characters express bitterness as a central theme, highlighting struggles and the impact of betrayal.
  • Classic works often use bitter characters to symbolize deeper societal issues, reflecting the complexities of human emotions.
  • Bitterness has been portrayed in literature as both a personal and societal affliction, showing how it can shape relationships and decisions.

Culinary Context

  • In cooking, bitterness is a basic taste and can enhance dishes; ingredients like bitter greens are often balanced with sweet or sour elements.
  • Certain beverages, like coffee and some beers, contain bitterness, which contributes to their unique flavors and aromas.
  • Culinary traditions around the world often use bitter ingredients for both flavor and health benefits, showing its significance in diets.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Various cultures have proverbs related to bitterness, often warning against holding onto negative feelings and advising forgiveness.
  • In art and music, bitterness is frequently expressed as a source of inspiration, leading to powerful creations that resonate with audiences.
  • Movies and stories often depict bitterness alongside redemption, showing characters overcoming their negative feelings for emotional growth.

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, bitterness has been a theme in global conflicts, where personal grudges have blossomed into larger disputes.
  • Historical figures have often expressed bitterness over loss, reflecting how personal experiences can influence broader societal narratives.
  • Amidst revolutions and changes, bitterness has been a motivating force for individuals and groups seeking justice and reform.

Origin of 'bitterness'

The word 'bitterness' has its origin in the Old English word 'biter' which means 'sharp, pungent, or biting'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass not just tastes, but also emotions. The concept of bitterness as a feeling of resentment or hostility has been present in human language for centuries, reflecting the universal experience of negative emotions. In various cultures, bitterness is often associated with challenges, disappointments, or conflicts, highlighting its complex role in human psychology and relationships.

See also: bitterly.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,807 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.