Short-tempered

Describing a person or animal that is easily angered or annoyed; having a tendency to become angry quickly and often over minor issues. This trait is often characterized by a lack of patience and an inability to tolerate frustration or setbacks. Individuals exhibiting this behavior may react impulsively and express their anger through shouting, irritability, or even aggressive actions. It is important to note the difference between an aggressive behavior of being physical and acting out, and the passive nature of simply being irritable. The root cause could be a range of factors, including stress, underlying mental health conditions, personality traits, or physical discomfort. Being short-tempered can negatively impact relationships, both personal and professional, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and social withdrawal. This state is often temporary, triggered by the situation, and can be worked on.

Short-tempered meaning with examples

• Her short-tempered response to the customer's complaint escalated the situation, rather than solving it, which made the boss furious. Her lack of patience when dealing with problems, especially when tired, means the customers now avoid her desk. She really needs to start taking some stress management classes to combat this negative issue.
• The toddler's short-tempered outbursts at bedtime were a result of being overstimulated during the day. She was tired and did not want to go to bed after being with other children. After a quiet half hour, she was easily calmed and would drift off. Consistency and a routine solved this over time.
• The construction worker, short-tempered from the heat and noise on the job site, yelled at his colleague over a minor mistake. He had worked hard, but this heat, for many weeks, was starting to become intolerable. He then spent the rest of the day regretting this, and he apologized at the end of the shift.
• The typically calm professor became short-tempered when faced with the student's repeated plagiarism. He felt betrayed and disrespected and acted in the heat of the moment by calling the student to his office and explaining the severity of what the student did.
• He was short-tempered with the slow service in the crowded restaurant and loudly complained to the manager. He had had a rough day, was tired, and simply wanted a good meal. The restaurant was busy and the service was very slow. After he ate his meal, he felt much calmer.