Some people can’t hide their frustration when things don’t go their way, sitting quietly with a frown or crossed arms. That’s the perfect example of being “sulky about it.” In this post, we’ll break down what this idiom means, where it comes from, and show you examples for using it in everyday situations.
Meaning of "Sulky about it"
The idiom “sulky about it” describes someone who is silently moody, pouting, or resentful, usually because something didn’t go as they hoped.
It can appear in a few contexts:
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Mild annoyance: Slightly upset but not openly complaining.
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Brooding resentment: Holding onto irritation for a longer period.
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Playful teasing: Used jokingly when someone pretends to be upset.
In short: Being “sulky about it” means showing silent dissatisfaction or moodiness.
Origin of "Sulky about it"
The word “sulky” dates back to the 14th century, from the Old English sulcian, meaning “to be silent or withdrawn in displeasure.” Over the centuries, it evolved to describe someone who appears moody or quietly upset.
The phrase “sulky about it” likely gained popularity in informal English during the 19th and 20th centuries in both Britain and America. While the exact first use is unclear, its purpose—to describe quiet frustration—is consistent across historical references.
Examples in Sentences
Here are some ways to use “sulky about it”:
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After losing the game, he sat in the corner, clearly sulky about it.
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She was sulky about it when her favorite café ran out of pastries.
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Don’t be sulky about it; mistakes happen to everyone.
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The child remained sulky about it, refusing to speak after being scolded.
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He got sulky about it, even though it was just a minor disagreement at work.
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I noticed my friend sulky about it, so I offered to cheer them up with coffee.
Similar Idioms or Phrases
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Pouty – Showing displeasure by sticking out the lips or acting moody.
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Moody – Easily upset or temperamental over small issues.
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Brooding – Deeply thinking while feeling upset or resentful.
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In a huff – Being upset or annoyed, often leaving or withdrawing.
Quietly sulking isn’t usually productive, but I find the phrase “sulky about it” captures the mix of humor and mild annoyance perfectly. Sometimes it’s fun to point it out gently when friends act this way—it makes the mood lighter.
Understanding “sulky about it” helps recognize when someone is quietly upset and gives you the words to describe it clearly. Do you use “sulky about it” in your everyday conversations? Share your examples in the comments!