Dejection: meaning, definitions and examples

Dejection is generally used to describe a state of sadness or low spirits, often after experiencing disappointment or failure. It usually implies a less intense emotion compared to despair.

• He felt deep dejection after not getting the job he had hoped for

Despondency refers to a state of low spirits caused by a loss of hope or courage. It's stronger than dejection but less intense than despair.

• After several failed attempts, he fell into a state of despondency

Despair is used when someone feels a complete loss of hope. This word carries very intense emotional weight and is often used in the most severe circumstances.

• She was in utter despair after the tragic accident

Gloom refers to a general state of darkness, sadness, or melancholy. It's more about a pervasive, ongoing feeling rather than a reaction to a specific event.

• There was a sense of gloom in the room after the news was announced

Dismay is used to describe a feeling of alarm, confusion, or disappointment, often in reaction to an unexpected situation. It doesn't necessarily imply prolonged sadness.

• To his dismay, the meeting was cancelled at the last minute

Use this word when you want to describe a feeling of sadness and lack of hope, often due to disappointment or failure. It's a general term for low spirits.

• She sank into dejection after hearing the bad news.
• His dejection was noticeable after losing the competition.

Despondency refers to a state of low spirits caused by loss of hope or courage. It implies a deeper and more prolonged form of sadness.

• He fell into despondency after repeated failures.
• The team's despondency was clear after their third consecutive loss.

This word is used for intense and overwhelming feelings of hopelessness and the belief that nothing will improve or save the situation.

• He was in despair after losing his job.
• Her despair was evident when she couldn't find her lost pet.

Gloom refers to a state of darkness or partial darkness, but metaphorically, it describes a feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and pessimism.

• A sense of gloom hung over the town after the tragic event.
• The gloomy weather matched his mood perfectly.

Dismay is a feeling of shock and distress, often mixed with disappointment and concern about a situation.

• She expressed dismay at the sudden change in plans.
• His dismay was apparent when he saw the damaged car.