noun a metaphorical phrase referring to someone who disparages something that they cannot have or achieve
In politics, 'sour grapes' can be used to describe a candidate or party downplaying the significance of losing an election or opportunity.
The phrase 'sour grapes' is often used in literature to refer to someone who disparages something that they cannot have or achieve, similar to Aesop's fable 'The Fox and the Grapes'.
In psychology, 'sour grapes' can be used to describe a defense mechanism where a person devalues something they desire but cannot attain, to cope with the disappointment.
In business, 'sour grapes' can be used to describe a competitor belittling a product or service they are unable to match or surpass.
In social commentary, 'sour grapes' can be used to criticize individuals or groups who criticize or devalue something out of envy or spite.
In the writing world, 'sour grapes' may be used to describe a writer who criticizes a successful colleague's work out of jealousy or spite.
Psychologists may use the term 'sour grapes' to refer to a client who devalues something they desire but cannot have, as a way to cope with disappointment.
A business analyst may use 'sour grapes' to describe a competitor who belittles their company's achievements due to their own failure or shortcomings.
Lawyers may use 'sour grapes' to describe a party in a legal case who disparages the outcome because they did not win.