Desperation: meaning, definitions and examples

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desperation

 

[ ˌdɛspəˈreɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

feeling of hopelessness

Desperation is a state of despair, typically fueled by a sense of hopelessness or urgency. It is a feeling of extreme distress and the belief that there are no other options available.

Synonyms

despair, hopelessness, urgency

Examples of usage

  • I could sense the desperation in her voice as she begged for help.
  • The desperation in his eyes was evident as he searched for a way out.
  • She acted out of desperation, knowing it was her last chance.
Context #2 | Noun

reckless behavior due to extreme need

Desperation can also refer to reckless or extreme behavior driven by a sense of urgency or extreme need. It often involves taking risks or making decisions that one wouldn't normally consider.

Synonyms

extremity, recklessness, urgency

Examples of usage

  • Their desperation led them to take dangerous risks.
  • He resorted to desperate measures out of sheer desperation.

Translations

Translations of the word "desperation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desespero

🇮🇳 निराशा

🇩🇪 Verzweiflung

🇮🇩 keputusasaan

🇺🇦 відчай

🇵🇱 rozpacz

🇯🇵 絶望 (zetsubou)

🇫🇷 désespoir

🇪🇸 desesperación

🇹🇷 umutsuzluk

🇰🇷 절망 (jeolmang)

🇸🇦 يأس (ya's)

🇨🇿 zoufalství

🇸🇰 zúfalstvo

🇨🇳 绝望 (juéwàng)

🇸🇮 obup

🇮🇸 örvænting

🇰🇿 үмітсіздік

🇬🇪 უიმედობა (uimedoba)

🇦🇿 ümidsizlik

🇲🇽 desesperación

Etymology

The word 'desperation' originated from the Latin word 'desperationem', which means to be without hope. The concept of desperation has been present throughout history, often associated with extreme situations or moments of crisis. It is a universal human emotion that reflects the depths of despair and urgency.

See also: desperately.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,262, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.