unhappy about something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unhappy about something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express dissatisfaction or displeasure regarding a specific issue or situation. Example: "She was unhappy about the changes made to the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

I dunno, she's unhappy about something.

The Guardian - Film

The idea that people felt I was somehow unhappy about something or ashamed.

The New York Times

"People are putting it off, but if you've been unhappy about something, you will get it fixed," he said.

The New York Times

"If you're unhappy about something, we will listen to you and put it into the policy committee at No 10.

The Guardian

We often leave a job or situation because we are unhappy about something: an overbearing manager, irritating colleagues, ridiculous hours.

The Guardian

●When you're feeling unhappy about something out of your control, don't freak out — just close your eyes and remember your favorite things.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

I was heartened by the great many positive responses to my piece, but I was also taken to task on my admonishment of people unhappy writing about something under a label they might not want or agree with.

Huffington Post

Jennifer Aniston has nothing to be unhappy about!

Huffington Post

Is it something that you yourself are unhappy about, or is it something hurting your loved one?

WikiHow

If your lust makes you unhappy, do something about it.

WikiHow

We all know people who seem to feel most happy being unhappy — always complaining or worrying about something.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When expressing dissatisfaction, be specific about the cause. Instead of saying, "I'm "unhappy about something"", clarify what exactly is causing the unhappiness: "I'm "unhappy about something": the project's delayed timeline".

Common error

Avoid using "unhappy about something" as a catch-all phrase. While it's acceptable in casual conversation, aim for more precise language in formal writing to convey your specific concerns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unhappy about something" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a state of dissatisfaction or displeasure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. The prepositional phrase "about something" specifies the cause or object of the unhappiness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

The New Yorker

4%

Forbes

4%

The New York Times - Sports

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unhappy about something" is a versatile and commonly used expression for conveying dissatisfaction or displeasure. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in a wide array of contexts. While perfectly acceptable, especially in neutral registers like news or general writing, consider using more precise or formal alternatives like "displeased with something" or "dissatisfied with something" when a stronger or more professional tone is desired. Remember to be specific about what's causing the unhappiness for clearer communication and to avoid vague language. If a sentence contains "unhappy about something", it expresses a negative sentiment and seeks a possible solution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

displeased with something

Emphasizes a lack of satisfaction, often in a more formal context.

dissatisfied with something

Highlights a sense of unmet expectations or standards.

not pleased with something

A straightforward expression of a lack of happiness or satisfaction.

concerned about something

Indicates worry or anxiety regarding a particular issue.

worried about something

Implies a state of unease or apprehension.

frustrated by something

Highlights a feeling of being blocked or prevented from achieving a goal.

annoyed by something

Expresses mild irritation or displeasure.

irked by something

Similar to annoyed but slightly stronger in expressing irritation.

aggravated by something

Suggests a more intense level of annoyance or frustration.

resentful of something

Indicates a feeling of bitterness or indignation due to perceived unfairness.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "unhappy about something"?

You can use alternatives like "displeased with something", "dissatisfied with something", or "not pleased with something" depending on the context.

How can I use "unhappy about something" in a sentence?

You can use it to express dissatisfaction or displeasure. For example: "She was "unhappy about something": the changes made to the project timeline."

Is "unhappy about something" too informal for professional communication?

While acceptable in many contexts, consider more formal alternatives like "dissatisfied with something" or "displeased with something" in professional settings to convey a more serious tone.

What's the difference between "unhappy about something" and "concerned about something"?

"Unhappy about something" expresses displeasure or dissatisfaction, while "concerned about something" /s/concerned+about expresses worry or anxiety regarding a particular issue. The former focuses on a feeling of discontent, and the latter focuses on a state of unease.