What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sulking
Example
After losing the game, he spent the rest of the day sulking in his room. [sulking: verb]
Example
She's been sulking for days since her boyfriend broke up with her. [sulking: present participle]
pouting
Example
She was pouting because she didn't get the toy she wanted. [pouting: verb]
Example
He looked so cute when he was pouting after being scolded by his mother. [pouting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sulking is more commonly used than pouting in everyday language. Sulking is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while pouting is more commonly associated with children's behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sulking and pouting?
Both sulking and pouting are informal words that are not typically used in formal contexts.