“frustrated”

Annoyed or troubled by something that resists resolution.

“She grew vexed as the printer jammed for the third time that morning.”

Best for: Works well in both casual and formal writing; slightly elevated over 'frustrated'.

Prevented from achieving one's aims, leaving a bitter sense of blockage.

“He felt thwarted at every turn, his plans collapsing like dominoes.”

Best for: Best when emphasizing external obstacles rather than internal irritation.

Restlessly irritated by a constraint one cannot easily escape.

“She was chafing under the endless bureaucratic delays.”

Best for: Vivid and physical in feel; great for showing simmering, sustained frustration.

Caused persistent, gnawing irritation that lingers beneath the surface.

“The dismissive comment rankled him long after the meeting had ended.”

Best for: Ideal for frustration mixed with wounded pride; strong emotional resonance.

Stung into sharp, prickly irritation by something trivial yet persistent.

“Nettled by his colleague's smug correction, she snapped back before she could stop herself.”

Best for: Punchy and visceral; best for sharp, immediate frustration rather than slow-burning resentment.

A melancholy, ill-tempered irritability historically attributed to excess black bile.

“A deep atrabiliousness had settled over him after months of fruitless negotiations.”

Best for: Rare and archaic; perfect for literary or historical fiction seeking an unusual, flavourful word.