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Alas Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alas

[əˈlæs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Interjection

expression of sorrow or regret

used to express sorrow, regret, or grief; unfortunately; that is the sad fact

Synonyms

regrettably, sadly, unfortunately.

Examples of usage

  • Alas, I have lost my keys again.
  • Alas, the poor dog was hit by a car.
  • Alas, the news of his death reached us too late.
  • Alas, we will never see her again.
  • Alas, the concert was cancelled due to bad weather.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The word is often used in classic literature, providing a dramatic flair to the emotions of characters.
  • Shakespeare used it in several plays, helping to capture the feelings of loss and anguish.
  • In poetry, 'alas' enhances the emotional resonance, showing the depth of the speaker's feelings.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, characters in movies or shows often say 'alas' before a tragic moment, reinforcing its association with sadness.
  • The phrase has appeared in music lyrics where artists express regret or lost love, keeping the word relevant in contemporary culture.
  • Memes sometimes use 'alas' humorously, contrasting serious emotion with lighthearted visuals.

Psychology

  • Using expressions like 'alas' can help people articulate their feelings of disappointment, which is important for emotional health.
  • Psychologists understand that verbal expressions of feelings can be therapeutic, aiding in processing grief.
  • 'Alas' can also function as a social signal, prompting empathy from others when someone is experiencing distress.

Philosophy

  • The term often embodies the human experience of facing inevitable sorrow, linking to themes of existentialism.
  • In philosophical discussions, 'alas' signifies acceptance of limits in human understanding or happiness.
  • It has been used in philosophical texts to reflect on the nature of disappointment and the human condition.

Origin of 'alas'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from the Old French 'alas', which means 'Oh!' or 'Alas!' used to express sorrow.
  • It was adopted into English around the late 14th century, showing how emotions were expressed in early literature.
  • Similar expressions exist in other languages, such as 'hélas' in French, indicating a shared cultural context for expressing grief.

The word 'alas' originated from Middle English 'allas', from Old French 'ha las', where 'las' meant 'unhappy' or 'weary'. It is often used in literature and poetry to express sorrow or regret.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,901 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.