look as if one has lost a shilling and found sixpence: meaning & examples

Meanings:

• 1.

  British EnglishinformalarchaicMachine
  • To display a disappointed, displeased, or put-out expression after receiving only a small consolation for a larger loss; to appear mildly annoyed or dissatisfied despite a minor recovery.

  Examples

  Beta

  • When offered a consolation prize, she looked as if one has lost a shilling and found sixpence, not truly satisfied.

    Upon receiving a consolation prize, she appeared disappointed and unsatisfied.

  • He looked as if one has lost a shilling and found sixpence after hearing the partial news about the deal.

    He seemed displeased despite getting partial information about the deal.

  • The team looked as if one has lost a shilling and found sixpence when their small win didn’t improve their standings much.

    The team appeared frustrated because their minor victory did not significantly enhance their ranking.