Tearjerker: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used when describing a movie, book, or play that is very sentimental and likely to make people cry.

• The movie was a real tearjerker, I couldn't stop crying.
• If you're in the mood for a tearjerker, you should watch that film.

Best suited for describing a serious or emotional narrative that deeply explores characters’ feelings and relationships.

• The new play is an emotional drama that delves into family dynamics.
• She enjoys emotional dramas that tug at the heartstrings.

Used to describe a story that is extremely sad and evokes a strong sense of empathy and sorrow.

• The heart-wrenching story of the orphan moved everyone in the audience.
• It’s a heart-wrenching story about love and loss.

This term often has a negative connotation, typically used when describing a story that is overly sentimental or manipulative in trying to elicit pity or sympathy.

• I got tired of listening to his sob story about losing his job.
• She always comes up with a sob story to get what she wants.