Despondently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
despondently
[dษชหspษndษntli ]
Definitions
feeling
In a way that shows a lack of hope or courage; disheartened.
Synonyms
dejectedly, dispiritedly, hopelessly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| despondently |
Used when someone feels a deep sense of sadness and loss of hope, often looking defeated.
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| dejectedly |
Used when someone feels sad and left out, usually after a disappointment or rejection.
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| dispiritedly |
Used when someone feels a lack of spirit or enthusiasm, often after a setback or discouraging event.
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| hopelessly |
Used when someone feels there is no possibility of improvement or escape from a difficult situation. It has a strong negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- She looked at him despondently, knowing that there was no way out of this situation.
- He sighed despondently as he realized the gravity of the mistake he had made.
behavior
In a way that reflects low spirits or a sense of hopelessness.
Synonyms
gloomily, mournfully, sorrowfully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| despondently |
When someone feels a deep loss of hope or confidence, usually due to a setback or disappointment.
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| mournfully |
In situations involving grief or sorrow, usually due to a loss or a sad event.
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| sorrowfully |
When someone feels or expresses deep sadness, often because of regret or a painful experience.
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| gloomily |
When describing a situation or demeanor that is dark, depressing, or lacking hope.
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Examples of usage
- She walked despondently, dragging her feet along the path.
- He spoke despondently, his voice filled with resignation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Despondency is often linked with depression, where a person may feel a profound sense of despair.
- Over time, this emotional state can affect cognitive functions, making it harder to think clearly or make decisions.
- It is recognized in therapy that addressing feelings of despondency involves rebuilding hope through small, tangible goals.
Literature
- Despondently appears in classic literature, often used to illustrate a character's deep emotional turmoil.
- In Shakespeare's works, characters sometimes express despondent feelings to emphasize tragic circumstances or personal failures.
- Modern novels continue to explore despondency, often as a theme for character development and resilience.
Art
- Many artists have depicted despondency in their works, using dark colors and heavy themes to convey feelings of despair.
- Edvard Munchโs famous painting 'The Scream' is often associated with existential angst and despondent emotions.
- Art therapy frequently uses creative expression to help individuals process feelings of despondency and find healing.
Pop Culture
- Songs across genres often capture the essence of despondency, resonating with listeners who feel lost or alone.
- In movies, characters may go through despondent phases before finding a path to hope and recovery.
- Popular media sometimes portrays despondency as a stepping stone to personal growth and overcoming challenges.
Origin of 'despondently'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'despondere,' meaning 'to give up' or 'to promise away.'
- It combines the prefix 'de-' which indicates removal, with 'spondere,' meaning 'to promise or pledge.'
- The term emerged in English during the late 16th century, reflecting a deeper understanding of emotional states.
The word 'despondently' is derived from the adjective 'despondent', which comes from the Latin word 'despondฤre', meaning 'to lose hope'. The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adverb 'despondently'. The term has been used in English literature to describe characters' emotions and behaviors in times of despair and hopelessness.