Heartbreak: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe the intense emotional suffering that comes from a deep personal loss, usually in the context of romantic relationships.

• She felt an immense heartbreak after their breakup.
• His sudden departure left her in heartbreak.

Grief is typically associated with the process of mourning after a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one. It encompasses a range of emotional responses to loss.

• He couldn't sleep due to the overwhelming grief from his father's passing.
• Her grief was evident in her tearful eyes.

Sorrow denotes a feeling of deep sadness or regret. It can be used in both personal losses and broader tragic situations.

• She spoke with great sorrow about her lost opportunity.
• His eyes were filled with sorrow after the tragic event.

Despair is used to describe a complete loss or absence of hope. It is often used in situations where someone feels utterly defeated or hopeless.

• She sank into despair after hearing the bad news.
• The continuous failures led him to despair.

Anguish refers to severe mental or physical pain. It is used in situations that involve extreme distress and can be related to various forms of suffering, beyond just emotional pain.

• He was in deep anguish over the tragic accident.
• The anguish of losing his job was unbearable.

Used when describing a profound emotional pain caused by love or loss, often in a romantic context.

• She felt a deep heartbreak when her fiancé called off the wedding.
• His heartbreak was evident after his beloved dog passed away.

Describes extreme damage or destruction, emotional or physical, often on a large scale.

• The hurricane left a trail of devastation in the coastal town.
• She felt utter devastation upon hearing the tragic news.

Often used to describe a distressing or fatal event, especially one involving human suffering, with a serious or dramatic tone.

• The accident was a tragedy that affected the entire community.
• Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet' is a classic tragedy.

Refers to a feeling of sadness or displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations, generally less intense than heartbreak.

• He couldn't hide his disappointment when he didn't get the promotion.
• The movie was a disappointment to everyone who eagerly awaited its release.

Appropriate for situations of intense difficulty, danger, or trouble, usually with broader implications for individuals or groups.

• The financial crisis left many unemployed.
• They are doing everything they can to manage the crisis caused by the natural disaster.