Mood: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a temporary state of mind or feeling, often directly impacted by immediate circumstances.

• She is in a good mood after hearing the news.
• I don't want to deal with him when he's in a bad mood.

Refers to a person's state of mind regarding anger or calmness, often implying a level of irritability or explosiveness. It generally carries a negative connotation.

• He has a quick temper, so be careful with what you say.
• Her temper flared up when she heard the insult.

Describes the general attitude or feeling of a person or group, often in terms of enthusiasm, resilience, or morale. It can also imply a sense of liveliness or energy.

• The team's spirit is high after winning the match.
• She approached the task with a positive spirit.

Refers to a person’s usual mood or general tendency to respond to situations in a certain way. It is more stable and long-term compared to 'mood'.

• She always has a cheerful disposition.
• His natural disposition is calm and patient.

Use 'mood' when talking about how someone feels or the overall emotional tone of a situation. It usually refers to emotions and can change frequently.

• She was in a great mood after receiving the good news.
• The movie set the perfect mood for a romantic evening.

Use 'atmosphere' when referring to the overall feeling or environment of a place. Like 'ambiance', it often describes the physical surroundings, but 'atmosphere' can also refer to the general mood of a situation or event.

• The atmosphere at the concert was electric.
• The office atmosphere improved significantly after the renovation.

Use 'ambiance' to describe the character and feeling of a place or setting, especially in terms of how it feels to be there. It often refers to the environment or the surrounding atmosphere and is commonly used in contexts like restaurants, events, or homes.

• The restaurant had a cozy ambiance, perfect for a date night.
• The lighting and music added to the festive ambiance of the party.

Use 'feeling' to describe an emotional state or sensation that someone experiences. It is a broad term that can refer to physical sensations, emotions, or intuitive states.

• I have a good feeling about this job interview.
• He couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched.