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Sour grapes
01
a negative attitude or reaction toward something that one desires but cannot have or achieve, often by minimizing its importance or worth
What is the origin of the idiom "sour grapes" and when to use it?
The idiom "sour grapes" comes from a fable named "The Fox and the Grapes." In the story, a fox couldn't reach some grapes and, feeling disappointed, claimed that the grapes were probably sour anyway. This phrase is used to describe someone who pretends to dislike or devalue something they desire but cannot have, often out of envy or frustration.
Example
If she doesn't get the promotion, it's important not to exhibit sour grapes and continue to work hard.
His constant criticism of others' achievements is just sour grapes due to his lack of success.
After not getting the job, he dismissed it as a boring position with a low salary, exhibiting sour grapes.
She said the concert was probably going to be terrible anyway after failing to get tickets, displaying sour grapes.
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