Annoying People and Things Flashcards
Officious
Definition 1: assertive of authority in an annoyingly domineering way, especially with regard to petty or trivial matters.
A person who has very little authority or holds a minor position in an organization, but nevertheless uses that limited power or position to make things difficult for people dealing with that that organization.
synonym: beaurocratic
The security people at the museum were very officious, and even asked me to show them my driver’s license
Definition 2: intrusively enthusiastic in offering help or advice; interfering.
Our new secretary is so officious that she even suggested that I buy some new neckties.
synonym: meddlesome
Intrusive
causing disruption or annoyance through being unwelcome or uninvited
“to push in” or “push in between”
in, into (from PIE root *en)) + to thrust, push (from PIE *treud- to press, push, squeeze)
intrusive implies a tactless or otherwise objectionable thrusting into others’ affairs.
I tried to be helpful when I heard that he got into a car accident without being intrusive
We were having a quiet conversation at lunch, but the waiter was very intrusive and kept coming over to our table to ask us if everything was ok.
synonym: interfering
Obtrusive
noticeable or prominent in an unpleasant way
“to stick out”
ob = out + trude = push
noticeable or prominent in an unwelcome or intrusive way.
She is so obtrusive because her office is next to mine, and I can hear her talking in a loud voice on the telephone all day long.
The high-powered satellites used by DirectTV and the DISH Network can reach smaller and less obtrusive antennas, so it’s much easier to install then on the roof.
impertinent
impertinent implies exceeding the bounds of propriety and being rude in showing interest or curiosity or in offering advice to a person who is older or in a higher position.
I resented the impertinent interference of the paralegal when he started to give me advice about how to handle this case.
meddlesome
meddlesome stresses an annoying and usually prying interference in others’ affairs.
I don’t want to appear meddlesome, but I can recommend a few changes in your report that might make it stronger.
