Disappointment: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone feels sad or unhappy because something didn't go as expected or someone didn't meet expectations.

• She felt a deep disappointment when she didn't get the job she applied for.
• His parents' disappointment was obvious when he failed the exam.

Used when someone feels unhappy or unfulfilled with a situation, service, or product because it doesn't meet their standards or expectations.

• The customer's dissatisfaction with the service was evident in her complaints.
• There was widespread dissatisfaction among employees due to the recent changes in the company policy.

A more casual term to describe a feeling of disappointment, often used when expectations were built up and then not met. It can have a slight negative connotation but is less formal.

• The movie was a letdown after all the hype it received.
• I thought the concert would be amazing, but it was a real letdown.

Used when someone feels annoyed or upset because they cannot achieve something or something is repeatedly preventing their success.

• He shouted in frustration after trying to solve the problem for hours without success.
• Her constant interruptions caused a lot of frustration during the meeting.

A general term used when something or someone does not meet expectations or hopes.

• The cancellation of the concert was a great disappointment to the fans

Used when something does not live up to expectations, especially after having raised hope or excitement.

• The final episode of the series was a letdown compared to the rest of the season

Often used in more serious or formal situations, particularly in contexts involving goals, projects, or exams.

• The project was deemed a failure due to its inability to meet the deadline

A slang term often used to describe a major failure, especially in entertainment or pop culture. It has a negative connotation.

• The movie was a total flop at the box office