an annoyance
/ən əˈnɔɪ.əns/noun phrase★Intermediate
informal
A person, thing, or situation that causes irritation or mild anger.
His habit of interrupting others is a constant annoyance.
His habit of interrupting others is constantly irritating.
The flickering light in the room was a minor annoyance.
The flickering light in the room was a minor irritation.
💡
Often used to describe minor irritations rather than severe anger.
Collocations
a constant annoyancesomething that repeatedly irritatesa minor annoyancea slight irritationan everyday annoyancea common, recurring irritation
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
annoyingadjective
causing irritation
annoyedadjective
feeling irritated
💡Pro Tip
Usage Context
Use 'an annoyance' for minor irritations, not severe anger.
⚡Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
In formal contexts, consider using 'irritation' or 'nuisance' instead.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'anoyance,' from Old French 'enoiance,' from 'enoiier' (to annoy).
📝Usage Notes
Often used in informal contexts to describe minor irritations rather than severe anger.
Word Breakdown
an
indefinite article
determinerannoyance
the state of being irritated
nounEnglish Dictionary