Sorrow: meaning, definitions and examples

Sorrow is a feeling of deep distress caused by loss, disappointment, or other misfortune. It is often used in formal contexts and can relate to both long-term and short-term sadness.

• She felt deep sorrow after the passing of her beloved pet
• The community was overwhelmed with sorrow after the tragic event

Sadness is a state of sorrow or unhappiness. It is a more general term that can describe a range of emotions from mild to severe.

• She felt a wave of sadness wash over her when she read the news
• His eyes were filled with sadness after the long day

Grief is intense sorrow, especially caused by someone's death. It is a deep emotional reaction to loss and is often experienced over a long period.

• After his passing, she was consumed by grief
• The grief she felt after losing her friend seemed unbearable

Heartache refers to emotional anguish or distress, typically resulting from love problems. It is less formal and often used to describe personal relational issues.

• He felt heartache when she broke up with him
• The heartache of their separation was hard to bear

Despair is the complete loss or absence of hope. It is often used in situations where someone feels completely helpless or in extreme difficulty.

• In his moments of despair, he couldn’t see a way out of his situation
• She cried out in despair when she realized she had lost everything

Describes a feeling of deep distress or sadness, typically caused by loss or disappointment. It is often used to convey a general sense of sadness.

• She felt deep sorrow after hearing the news
• He tried to hide his sorrow, but it was clear in his eyes

Describes the process or act of feeling and expressing deep sadness or pain, usually due to the loss of someone or something significant. Often used in a more formal or psychological context.

• People need time to grieve after losing a loved one
• She is still grieving over the death of her pet

Refers to the act of showing sorrow or grief, often in a ritualistic or formal way. Commonly used when talking about the loss of someone through death.

• The family gathered to mourn their grandmother's passing
• Nations continue to mourn the loss of lives in the disaster

Expresses a strong, often vocal, expression of grief, sorrow, or regret. It can also imply a sense of public mourning or formal complaint about something.

• The villagers lament the loss of their ancestral land
• He lamented that he didn't take the job opportunity earlier

Describes the act of shedding tears, often quietly, due to sadness, grief, or intense emotion. It is a more personal and immediate expression of sorrow.

• She wept silently in her room
• He began to weep when he read the letter