What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pouty
Example
She had a pouty expression on her face when she didn't get what she wanted. [pouty: adjective]
Example
He's being so pouty about not getting his way. [pouty: adjective]
sulky
Example
She was sulky all day after her argument with her friend. [sulky: adjective]
Example
He's being so sulky and won't even look at me. [sulky: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sulky is more commonly used than pouty in everyday language. Sulky is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pouty is less common and is often used in a more limited set of situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pouty and sulky?
Both pouty and sulky are informal words that are typically used in casual conversation or writing. Neither word is considered particularly formal or appropriate for professional or academic contexts.