vexation
C1/C2Formal, literary
Definition
Meaning
The state of being annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
A specific cause of annoyance or frustration; something that vexes.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Denotes a more prolonged, thoughtful, or literary sense of annoyance than simpler synonyms like 'annoyance'. Often implies a state of mental agitation or perplexity.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Both variants use the word, though it is relatively rare in everyday speech in both.
Connotations
In both dialects, it carries a formal, slightly old-fashioned literary tone. More likely found in writing than spontaneous speech.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in British historical/literary texts, but overall equally low-frequency in modern usage for both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
vexation at [something]vexation with [someone]vexation over [an issue]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Much to my vexation, ...”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare; might appear in formal complaints or reports describing persistent, troublesome issues (e.g., 'The software bug remained a constant vexation for the accounting team').
Academic
Used in literary analysis, historical texts, or philosophical discourse discussing states of mind.
Everyday
Very rare in casual conversation; would sound formal or humorous if used.
Technical
Not typical in technical fields.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The bureaucratic delays continued to vex the planning committee.
American English
- His cryptic remarks vexed me for the rest of the day.
adjective
British English
- It was a most vexatious problem with no clear solution.
American English
- She filed a motion to dismiss the vexatious lawsuit.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- His lateness was a small vexation for his friend.
- The constant noise from the construction site was a source of great vexation.
- Much to her vexation, the manuscript was returned by the publisher with no feedback.
- He bore his financial vexations with a stoic expression.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: VEX (to annoy) + ATION (state of) = the state of being VEXed.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANNOYANCE IS A BURDEN (e.g., 'weighed down by vexation').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation to 'раздражение' for momentary irritation; 'vexation' implies a deeper, more persistent state. 'Досада' or 'огорчение' can be closer in some contexts.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'vexation' for minor, fleeting annoyances (too strong/formal).
- Confusing spelling with 'vexatious' (the adjective).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'vexation' LEAST likely to be used naturally?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a formal, literary word (C1/C2 level). In everyday speech, 'annoyance' or 'irritation' are far more common.
'Vexation' often implies annoyance mixed with perplexity or worry. 'Frustration' is broader, focusing more on the feeling of being thwarted or hindered from achieving a goal.
Typically, it describes the feeling or the cause. You feel vexation *at* or *with* a person. A person can *be a vexation* (a cause of annoyance).
The adjective is 'vexatious' (e.g., a vexatious problem, a vexatious legal proceeding).