📖 Meaning
Feeling dissatisfied and unhappy; sulking because things did not turn out as one wished. It describes a resentful, discontented mood when expectations are not met.
📜 Origin Story
This phrase originates from Sima Guang's 'Ying Zhao Lun Ti Yao' (Reply to the Emperor on Essential Principles) written during the Song Dynasty. In the text, Sima Guang warned that when those in charge are made to feel dissatisfied and unhappy, they will not work wholeheartedly to assist in planning or cooperate to accomplish tasks. The idiom has since been used to describe a sulking, resentful attitude born of dissatisfaction.
💡 Example Usage
他因为没能升职，整天怏怏不悦的。
He was sullen and resentful all day because he didn't get the promotion.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 怏怏不悦
- Pinyin: yàng yàng bù yuè
- Literal Translation: resentful, resentful, not, pleased
- Category: Emotion
- Characters: 4