Desperation: meaning, definitions and examples

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desperation

[ˌdɛspəˈreɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
desperation	Desperation is used when someone is in a state of extreme distress and ready to take drastic measures. It implies a strong need for help or a solution. In her desperation, she called every friend she had, looking for a solution. The villagers' desperation was evident as they awaited rescue.
hopelessness	Hopelessness describes a feeling when there is no possibility of success or improvement and is generally used to convey long-term or chronic situations. Feeling a sense of hopelessness, she didn't want to leave her bed. The years of struggle led to a growing sense of hopelessness among the community.
despair	Despair is a deep feeling of hopelessness and absence of any expectation for a favorable outcome. It is often used in emotional or dramatic contexts. He sank into despair after losing his job. The news threw them into a state of utter despair.
urgency	Urgency refers to a situation that requires immediate action or attention. It does not necessarily carry a negative connotation and can be used in both serious and neutral contexts. There was a sense of urgency in his voice as he called for help. The project required urgency to meet the tight deadline.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
desperation	Desperation is used when someone feels hopeless or in a state of despair, often causing them to act irrationally or take drastic measures. She called for help in utter desperation, not knowing how else to save her child
recklessness	Recklessness is used to describe behavior that is careless or lacks concern for the consequences, often implying negative judgment. His reckless driving nearly caused a serious accident
extremity	Extremity typically describes a situation or action taken to a high degree or the utmost limit, often used in contexts implying severe or intense circumstances. In the extremity of the cold, the mountaineers struggled to find shelter
urgency	Urgency describes a situation that requires immediate attention or action, often due to the importance or time-sensitive nature of the matter. There was a sense of urgency in her voice as she explained the critical situation

Examples of usage

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

High levels of this feeling can lead to extreme actions, sometimes even risky behavior.
It often overlaps with anxiety and can trigger the fight-or-flight response.
People experiencing this feeling may struggle to think clearly and make rational decisions.

Literature

Characters in stories often face this emotion, driving them to make choices that reveal their true nature.
Classic novels frequently explore the theme of this feeling as a catalyst for transformation or tragedy.
Dramatic poetry often captures the essence of this feeling, intensifying the emotional depth of the piece.

History

Periods of economic depression have led entire communities to experience widespread feelings of needing help and stability.
Many revolutionary movements were fueled by this strong sense of urgency among the oppressed seeking change.
Historical figures often took drastic measures out of this feeling, propelling them into significant actions that shaped societies.

Art

Artworks like 'The Scream' by Edvard Munch vividly express this intense feeling, reflecting inner turmoil.
In cinema, this emotion drives plot lines, creating tension and compelling character arcs.
Many musicians draw from this feeling to create powerful lyrics that resonate with listeners' experiences.

Pop Culture

Television shows often depict characters experiencing this feeling in relationship dramas or survival scenarios.
It’s a common theme in songs, with artists expressing personal struggles and the lengths they would go to in dire situations.
Reality shows frequently put contestants in situations to elicit this emotional response for dramatic effect.

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

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.

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12259 escorted
12260 pellets
12261 greedy
12262 desperation
12263 lance
12264 forwarding
12265 blonde
...