testily
/ˈtestɪli/ (bre, ipa) · [tˈɛstəli] /ˈtestɪli/ (ame, ipa) · [tˈɛstəli] /ˈtestə̇lē How to pronounce testily (audio) -li/ (ame, mw)
testily — adverb
1. in an annoyed or impatient way, especially when reacting to something that is sm
in an annoyed or impatient way, especially when reacting to something that is small or not very important
"I told you — I do not know," Iris replied testily, turning her back.
modifies a speech verb in dialogue
"Why are you asking me again?" Ishaan said testily, slamming his notebook shut.
testily + said + physical action showing irritation
"That is not what I meant," Adina said testily, arms folded across her chest.
Megan testily reminded her colleague that the meeting had already been rescheduled twice.
- irritably
the closest synonym; interchangeable in most contexts
- peevishly
slightly more childish or petty, often over trivial things
- crossly
British English, slightly more old-fashioned or mild
- snappishly
emphasises a sharp, quick, impatient tone in speech
文法句型
[verb] + testily
用法筆記
Most commonly used with verbs of speaking such as reply, say, ask, answer, or snap. It describes the irritated tone or manner in which someone responds to a question or comment, particularly when they feel the other person should already know the answer.