Sadden: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the act of making someone feel unhappy or sorrowful, often for minor or personal reasons.

• The news of her moving away saddened her friends
• It saddens me to see the park in such a neglected state

Commonly used to describe a state of being emotionally disturbed or agitated, often due to unexpected or unfavorable events. Has a slightly negative or critical connotation.

• The cancellation of his flight upset him
• She was upset after hearing the latest news on the project delays

Refers to causing someone to feel extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain. Often used in more intense or urgent situations.

• The sudden loss of her job distressed her greatly
• Hearing about the car accident distressed everyone in the family

Primarily used to describe the deep sorrow felt after the loss of a loved one or a significant life event, often involving a period of mourning.

• She continues to grieve the loss of her grandmother
• He took a long time to grieve after the tragic event

Use this word when you describe something that makes someone feel unhappy or sorrowful. It can be used in everyday situations.

• The news of their departure will sadden many people.
• It really saddens me to see the old house in such a state.

This word is typically used to describe the period of grieving and the actions associated with mourning after someone dies. It is used in formal and ceremonial contexts.

• They mourned the loss of their beloved leader for a year.
• He mourns the passing of his grandmother deeply.

This word conveys a strong expression of sorrow or regret, sometimes publicly or poetically. It can be used in literary contexts or when expressing profound disappointment.

• The poet lamented the passing of the old ways.
• They lament the decline of traditional crafts.

This word is appropriate for more intense and profound feelings of sorrow, often due to loss or death. It is usually used in more serious or formal situations.

• She needs time to grieve the loss of her husband.
• People grieve in different ways, so give them space.

Used when something makes someone feel sad. Often suitable for describing a reaction to an event or news.

• The news of his departure saddened everyone.
• It saddens me to see you like this.

Denotes a feeling of deep distress caused by loss, disappointment, or other misfortune suffered by oneself or others. Sorrow can describe a broader and more sustained emotion compared to sadness.

• The sorrow in his eyes was evident.
• Her letter was full of sorrow and regret.

Refers to deep and intense sorrow, usually after someone’s death. It is often more about the process or state of experiencing such an intense emotion.

• She was overcome with grief after her mother's passing.
• He struggled for months with the grief of his friend's death.

Describes a deep, pensive, and long-lasting sadness. It is often used in literature or art to depict a sad, reflective, and somewhat beautiful state of mind.

• There was a hint of melancholy in her voice.
• He felt a deep melancholy during the rainy days of autumn.