Petulance: meaning, definitions and examples

Petulance is used to describe childish bad temper, often over something trivial. It suggests an unreasonable or sudden irritation.

• The child's petulance was apparent when he didn't get his favorite ice cream.
• Their petulance became evident when the meeting was delayed.

Sulkiness describes the mood of being silent and bad-tempered, often in response to not getting one's way. It typically has a negative connotation of immaturity.

• He showed his sulkiness by refusing to talk to anyone after the decision.
• Her sulkiness was evident when she stayed in her room all day.

Irritability refers to a general tendency to become annoyed or angry easily. It implies a sensitivity to being disturbed.

• Lack of sleep caused his irritability today.
• Irritability can be a symptom of stress.

Impatience is used when someone is restless or stressed due to a delay or waiting for something. It often reflects a lack of tolerance.

• Her impatience was clear as she tapped her foot while waiting in line.
• He showed impatience during the lengthy presentation.

Petulance is used when someone is being childishly sulky or bad-tempered, often in response to not getting what they want.

• Her petulance was evident when she didn't get the promotion, and she refused to talk to her colleagues.
• He displayed petulance by stomping his feet and pouting when told to finish his homework.

Impatience is often used when someone is unable to wait for something or someone. It can be seen as a lack of endurance or tolerance for delays.

• His impatience was clear as he kept checking his watch while waiting in line.
• She showed impatience during the long meeting by tapping her pen and sighing loudly.

Irritation refers to a state of being annoyed or bothered by something, often by repeated or ongoing issues.

• There was a note of irritation in her voice when she had to explain the instructions for the third time.
• His constant fidgeting led to irritation among his classmates.

Snappiness is used to describe a quick, irritable response to someone or something. It often implies a short temper and a tendency to respond harshly.

• Her snappiness with her colleagues made it difficult to work together as a team.
• He answered with snappiness when asked about his late arrival, which surprised everyone.