Discouraged: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when someone feels less confident or optimistic because of a setback or difficulty.

• She felt discouraged after failing her driving test again
• He was discouraged by the lack of progress in his project

Use when someone's enthusiasm or hope is reduced, typically due to obstacles or difficulties.

• She was disheartened by the lack of support from her friends
• The slow progress disheartened the researchers

Use when someone feels completely disheartened and loses motivation, often because of repeated failures or a challenging situation.

• The team was demoralized after losing several matches in a row
• The negative feedback from his boss demoralized him

Use to describe someone who feels sad and lacking in spirit, often due to a significant disappointment or failure.

• She was dejected after receiving the bad news
• His dejected expression showed how much the loss affected him

Use when someone feels disappointed or let down, often after something they hoped for did not happen.

• He looked crestfallen when he heard that the job offer was withdrawn
• After losing the game, the players were crestfallen

Use when someone feels distressed or alarmed, often because something unexpected or troubling has happened.

• They were dismayed by the sudden change in plans
• He was dismayed to find out about the company's financial troubles

When someone feels less motivated or confident due to difficulties or disappointments. Generally used in a more personal or emotional context.

• She felt discouraged after failing the exam.
• He was discouraged by the lack of progress.

When someone is made to lose confidence or enthusiasm, often after a setback or disappointment. Similar to 'discouraged' but may feel a bit more severe.

• Losing the job was a disheartening experience.
• Seeing no improvement disheartened him.

Best used when talking about preventing someone from taking an action through fear or doubt. Often used in security or decision-making contexts.

• They installed cameras to deter thieves.
• The high costs may deter some buyers.

In situations where someone's morale or spirit is being lowered, often due to repeated failures or harsh circumstances. It implies a significant impact on mood or morale.

• The constant criticism was enough to demoralize even the most committed worker.
• The team's numerous losses have started to demoralize the players.

Used to talk about persuading someone not to do something, typically through reasoning or advice.

• He tried to dissuade her from quitting the job.
• They were dissuaded by their friends from taking the risky trip.

When describing something as intimidating or causing fear. It suggests a feeling of being overwhelmed.

• The steep climb did not daunt the experienced hikers.
• Public speaking daunts many people.