Miserable: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe extreme unhappiness or discomfort, whether emotional or physical.

• She felt miserable after losing her job.
• The weather was so bad that everyone was miserable.

A broad term for feeling discomfort or dissatisfaction, often used in both casual and formal settings.

• He was unhappy with the service at the restaurant.
• She's unhappy because of her poor test results.

A general term to describe feeling sorrowful or unhappy; less intense than 'miserable'.

• She looked sad when she said goodbye.
• He felt sad after watching the film.

Connotes a severe degree of unhappiness or misfortune, often accompanied by a sense of being pitiful.

• He led a wretched life after the accident.
• She felt wretched with guilt.

Implies a state of low spirits due to disappointment or failure.

• He was dejected after hearing the bad news.
• She felt dejected when her proposal was rejected.

Use this word to describe someone who feels very unhappy or uncomfortable. It can apply to both emotional and physical discomfort.

• She felt miserable after failing her exam.
• The rainy weather made everyone feel miserable.

Wretched describes a state of great unhappiness and misery, often highlighting extreme distress or misfortune. It has a negative connotation.

• She felt wretched after the argument with her best friend.
• The refugees arrived in wretched conditions.

This word is appropriate when someone feels sad and disheartened, often because of a setback or disappointment.

• He was dejected after his team lost the match.
• She looked dejected when she heard the bad news.

Use this word to describe a sense of loneliness and abandonment, often with a focus on being alone or deserted.

• The dog looked forlorn after being left outside in the rain.
• She felt forlorn when all her friends moved away.

This word is used to express deep sorrow or grief, often related to loss or mourning.

• He gave a mournful sigh upon hearing the tragic news.
• The mournful melody of the violin filled the room.

Used to describe a state of severe unhappiness or discomfort, often over an extended period. It can relate to emotional, physical, or situational experiences.

• After losing his job, he felt miserable for months
• The weather was miserable, with constant rain and cold winds

Used to describe something that is not enjoyable or agreeable, causing discomfort or minor pain, and has a generally negative connotation.

• The taste of the medicine was unpleasant
• She had an unpleasant experience at the restaurant due to poor service

Used to describe something that causes a mild to moderate level of discomfort or unease, often temporary or situational.

• The news was discomforting, leaving everyone at the meeting feeling uneasy
• The tight shoes were discomforting after a few hours of walking

Used to describe a somber, dark, or depressing atmosphere, often involving poor lighting or a pessimistic mood.

• The old house had a gloomy atmosphere, with dark corners and cobwebs
• He had a gloomy outlook on the future after the recent setback

Used to describe something that is dull, bleak, and lifeless, often referring to weather, places, or situations.

• The landscape was dreary, with no sign of life or color
• It was a dreary Monday morning, with heavy clouds and rain