Hopelessness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone feels there is no chance of improvement or solution to a problem.

• 'She felt a deep sense of hopelessness after losing her job
• ' 'The continued war has brought a feeling of hopelessness among the people
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Used when someone feels complete loss of hope and is in a very negative state of mind.

• 'She sank into despair when she heard the news
• ' 'In a state of despair, he didn't know how to move forward
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Expresses a loss of spirit and courage, often due to repeated failures or setbacks.

• 'After months of job searching with no offers, he fell into despondency
• ' 'Her despondency was evident as she spoke about her struggles
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Describes a state of sadness and low spirits, often due to disappointment.

• 'There was a look of dejection on his face after the defeat
• ' 'Her dejection was clear as she gazed out the window, thinking of what could have been
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Repeated example - as above.

Describes a state where one is willing to take drastic or extreme actions due to loss of hope or urgent need. It often leads to irrational and reckless behavior.

• In her desperation to find her lost dog, she checked every street in the neighborhood.
• Out of desperation, he agreed to the risky deal.

Often used to describe a feeling of profound loneliness and emptiness, usually in relation to a physical place or emotional state. It can imply both emotional and environmental barrenness.

• The abandoned town was a place of utter desolation.
• After her husband passed away, she felt a profound desolation.

Used when someone has lost all hope and is in a state of deep sorrow and helplessness. It generally implies an acute and intense feeling of loss and lack of solutions.

• She was in despair after hearing about her brother's accident.
• The team's latest defeat left the fans in complete despair.