The word "disappointed" is an adjective that describes the feeling of being sad or let down because something did not meet one's expectations. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of them:
1. Let down
- Meaning: To cause someone to feel disappointed; to fail to meet the expectations or hopes of someone.
- Analysis: "Let down" and "disappointed" are very similar in meaning and usage. For example, "She was disappointed/let down when her favorite team lost." "Let down" is a more informal and phrasal way of expressing the same idea. It emphasizes the action that caused the disappointment, as if someone or something had dropped or failed to support the person's expectations. The phrase often implies a sense of betrayal or a failure to deliver on a promise.
2. Disillusioned
- Meaning: Having lost one's illusions or false beliefs; feeling disappointed as a result of having one's ideals or expectations shattered.
- Analysis: "Disillusioned" is a stronger form of "disappointed." For example, "He became disillusioned/disappointed with politics after years of observing corruption." "Disillusioned" implies a deeper sense of disappointment that comes from the realization that something one believed in or hoped for was not as it seemed. It often involves a loss of faith or a recognition that an ideal was based on false assumptions. This term is used when the disappointment is not just about a single event but about a more fundamental disenchantment with a person, an institution, or a concept.
3. Dismayed
- Meaning: Filled with consternation, distress, or disappointment; to cause someone to feel shocked and disappointed.
- Analysis: "Dismayed" has a stronger emotional tone than "disappointed." For example, "The students were dismayed/disappointed to learn that the school trip was cancelled." "Dismayed" implies a sense of distress or unease in addition to disappointment. It often suggests that the person is not only let down but also troubled or worried about the situation. This word is used when the disappointment is accompanied by a feeling of helplessness or concern about the consequences of the disappointing event.
4. Dejected
- Meaning: Sad and dispirited; in low spirits as a result of disappointment.
- Analysis: "Dejected" focuses on the emotional state that follows disappointment. For example, "The dejected/disappointed job applicant walked out of the interview room." "Dejected" describes a person's appearance or mood as being downcast and lacking in energy or enthusiasm. It emphasizes the visible and psychological impact of disappointment, showing that the person's spirits have been dampened and they are feeling a sense of gloom or sadness.