What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
petulant
Example
The petulant child threw a fit when his mother refused to buy him candy. [petulant: adjective]
Example
She spoke in a petulant tone, complaining about the service at the restaurant. [petulant: adjective]
sulky
Example
He was sulky for the rest of the day after losing the game. [sulky: adjective]
Example
She gave him a sulky look when he told her they couldn't go to the party. [sulky: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sulky is more commonly used than petulant in everyday language. Sulky is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while petulant is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between petulant and sulky?
Both petulant and sulky are informal words that are not commonly used in formal contexts. However, petulant may be seen as more childish and immature than sulky, which can be used to describe a wider range of moods and behaviors.
