About this quote

English humorist wordplay exposes a hilarious truth about human moodiness. We often find ourselves in a state of mild, unspoken irritation that we cannot quite justify. It is that awkward gray zone where you are not angry enough to complain, yet you are definitely not happy. Recognising this subtle annoyance in others can diffuse a tense room. Next time you notice someone stewing in silence, give them some space instead of pushing for an explanation.

When to use it

• You notice your coworker staring blankly at their monitor after a sudden budget cut announcement. You whisper to your desk mate that the team is definitely far from being gruntled right now.
• Your teenager sits at the dinner table poking at their vegetables with a slight scowl. You tell your partner later that the kid is in a classic, unexplainable funk.
• Your gym partner sluggishly drops the dumbbells and sits on the bench with a heavy sigh. You immediately realize they are only here out of obligation and would rather be anywhere else.