Depressingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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depressingly
[dɪˈprɛsɪŋli ]
Definition
adverb of manner
In a manner that is causing someone to feel very sad and without hope.
Synonyms
mournfully, sadly, sorrowfully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| depressingly |
Used when describing something that brings feelings of severe sadness, often in a manner that is difficult to change or escape. It implies a sense of ongoing, relentless dismalness.
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| sadly |
Commonly used in everyday situations to indicate a sense of sadness or regret. It can refer to both minor and major disappointments or unfortunate circumstances.
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| sorrowfully |
Best used in formal or literary contexts to describe profound sadness or regret. It often indicates a deep, heartfelt lament.
|
| mournfully |
Appropriate when referring to expressions of deep grief, typically related to loss or bereavement. It often conveys a quiet, reflective sorrow.
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Examples of usage
- She looked at him depressingly.
- The news was depressingly familiar.
- The weather outside was depressingly grey and dull.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often experience feelings that can be described as depressing during difficult life events, like losing a loved one.
- Chronic stress and anxiety can also lead to a sense of hopelessness that feels depressingly heavy.
- The term is often used in mental health discussions, especially concerning mood disorders.
Literature
- Many authors use this word to convey a mood, as in gloomy settings or tragic characters, making stories more impactful.
- William Styron's 'Darkness Visible' uses the concept to explore the depths of personal despair.
- Poetry often captures feelings with this word, emphasizing deep emotional struggles.
Pop Culture
- Movies that depict difficult realities, like 'Requiem for a Dream', often evoke feelings described as depressingly true.
- Song lyrics frequently express themes of sadness, using the term to describe emotional struggle in genres like rock and pop.
- The phrase 'depressingly relatable' has emerged in memes, highlighting common, albeit sad, human experiences.
Science
- Studies show that prolonged feelings described as depressingly low can affect brain chemistry, influencing mental health.
- Environmental factors, such as seasonal changes, can lead to periods of sadness, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
- Research indicates that positive social interactions can counteract feelings that might feel depressingly overwhelming.
Origin of 'depressingly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'deprimere', meaning 'to press down'.
- It first appeared in English in the 17th century, evolving to describe more emotional states over time.
- Related roots include 'depression', which has been used in both medical and emotional contexts.
The adverb 'depressingly' originated from the verb 'depress', which comes from the Latin word 'deprimere', meaning 'press down'. The adverb form 'depressingly' started being used in the English language in the 19th century, as a way to describe actions or situations that cause sadness and hopelessness.
See also: depressed, depressing, depression, depressiveness.