Top 60 Slang For Disheartening – Meaning & Usage

Experiencing moments that leave you feeling down or discouraged is a common part of life, but expressing these emotions can sometimes be a challenge. In this article, we’ve gathered a selection of slang terms that capture the essence of feeling disheartened. Let’s delve into this list and explore the colorful language we use to navigate those tough times.

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1. Bummer

This term is used to describe something that is disappointing, unfortunate, or unpleasant.

For example, “It’s such a bummer that the concert got canceled.”
Someone might say, “I had a bummer day at work today.”
Another person might comment, “Getting stuck in traffic is always a bummer.”

2. Gut-wrenching

This phrase describes something that is extremely distressing or emotionally painful, to the point of causing physical discomfort.

For instance, “The movie’s ending was so gut-wrenching that I couldn’t stop crying.”
A person might say, “Hearing about the tragedy was absolutely gut-wrenching.”
Another might describe a heartbreak as “a gut-wrenching experience.”

3. Soul-crushing

This term refers to something that is deeply demoralizing or devastating, to the point of affecting one’s spirit or inner self.

For example, “Receiving a rejection letter was a soul-crushing experience.”
Someone might say, “Failing the exam was soul-crushing for me.”
Another person might comment, “Losing the championship game was a soul-crushing defeat.”

4. Heartbreaking

This word is used to describe something that is causing intense sadness or sorrow, often related to a loss or disappointment.

For instance, “The story of the orphaned children was truly heartbreaking.”
A person might say, “It’s heartbreaking to see someone you love suffer.”
Another might comment, “The breakup was absolutely heartbreaking for both of them.”

5. Crushed

This term is used to describe the feeling of being defeated or emotionally overwhelmed, usually as a result of a disappointment or setback.

For example, “After failing the exam, I felt completely crushed.”
Someone might say, “Losing the job opportunity left me feeling crushed.”
Another person might comment, “Not getting into my dream college really crushed me.”

6. Devastating

Something that is extremely disheartening or overwhelming. It describes a situation or event that causes great emotional distress or destruction.

For example, “The news of her sudden death was devastating to her family and friends.”
A person might say, “Losing the championship game was devastating for the team.”
Another might express, “The devastation caused by the natural disaster is unimaginable.”

7. Discouraging

Something that diminishes hope, enthusiasm, or motivation. It refers to situations or circumstances that make it difficult to remain positive or optimistic.

For instance, “Receiving rejection letters from every job application can be discouraging.”
A person might say, “The lack of progress in my career is really discouraging.”
Another might express, “The constant criticism from my boss is really discouraging me.”

8. Demoralizing

Something that lowers morale or confidence. It describes experiences or actions that cause a loss of motivation, spirit, or enthusiasm.

For example, “Constant failure can be demoralizing and make it difficult to keep trying.”
A person might say, “The demoralizing comments from my peers really affected my self-esteem.”
Another might express, “The demoralizing defeat in the final match shattered the team’s confidence.”

9. Dismal

Something that is depressing or bleak. It refers to situations or conditions that are characterized by a lack of hope, brightness, or positivity.

For instance, “The dismal weather ruined our plans for a picnic.”
A person might say, “The dismal state of the economy is causing widespread concern.”
Another might express, “The dismal performance of the team is disappointing to the fans.”

10. Dispiriting

Something that causes a loss of hope, enthusiasm, or motivation. It describes experiences or events that make it difficult to maintain a positive or optimistic outlook.

For example, “Receiving constant criticism from my supervisor is dispiriting and makes me question my abilities.”
A person might say, “The dispiriting news of layoffs in the company is causing anxiety among employees.”
Another might express, “The dispiriting loss in the election was a blow to the candidate’s supporters.”

11. Deflating

To feel let down or disappointed, often after having high expectations. “Deflating” is used to describe a situation or experience that takes the wind out of your sails.

For example, “It was deflating to study so hard for the test and still get a low grade.”
A sports fan might say, “Losing the championship game was really deflating.”
Someone discussing a failed project might say, “The lack of support from our team was really deflating.”

12. Disappointing

Not living up to expectations or hopes. “Disappointing” is a term used to describe something that falls short of what was anticipated.

For instance, “The movie had a lot of hype, but it turned out to be disappointing.”
A person might say, “It’s disappointing that the event was canceled at the last minute.”
A student might say, “Getting a low grade on the assignment was really disappointing.”

13. Disheartening

To feel discouraged or dispirited, often due to a negative or disheartening experience. “Disheartening” describes something that causes a loss of hope or enthusiasm.

For example, “The constant rejection letters were disheartening for the aspiring writer.”
A person might say, “It’s disheartening to see the state of the environment.”
A job seeker might say, “After months of searching with no success, it’s really disheartening.”

14. Disillusioning

To become disenchanted or lose faith in something or someone. “Disillusioning” refers to an experience that reveals the truth or reality behind something, often leading to disappointment.

For instance, “Finding out that my idol was involved in scandal was disillusioning.”
A person might say, “The reality of the job market is disillusioning for recent graduates.”
A fan might say, “Seeing my favorite team lose repeatedly has been really disillusioning.”

15. Disconcerting

To feel disturbed, confused, or unsettled by something. “Disconcerting” describes a situation or experience that throws you off balance or makes you feel uneasy.

For example, “The strange noises in the empty house were disconcerting.”
A person might say, “It’s disconcerting to walk alone at night.”
A traveler might say, “The language barrier was initially disconcerting, but I quickly adapted.”

16. Disquieting

This term refers to something that causes uneasiness or a feeling of discomfort. It is often used to describe situations or events that are unsettling or unsettling.

For example, “The disquieting news of the recent natural disaster left the community in shock.”
A person might say, “I find it disquieting how easily misinformation spreads on social media.”
In a discussion about horror movies, a user might comment, “The disquieting atmosphere in that film kept me on the edge of my seat.”

17. Dejecting

This word is used to describe something that causes a feeling of sadness or disappointment. It often refers to situations or events that lower one’s spirits or morale.

For instance, “The dejecting loss in the final seconds of the game left the team devastated.”
A person might say, “It’s dejecting to see all the litter on the streets despite efforts to keep the city clean.”
In a discussion about job interviews, someone might comment, “Receiving multiple rejections can be dejecting, but it’s important to keep trying.”

18. Despondent

This term describes a state of extreme sadness or despair. It is often used to express a feeling of complete hopelessness or discouragement.

For example, “After the sudden passing of her pet, she was despondent and couldn’t stop crying.”
A person might say, “I feel despondent about the current state of the world and the challenges we face.”
In a discussion about personal struggles, someone might share, “During my lowest moments, I felt completely despondent and lost all motivation.”

19. Melancholy

This word refers to a feeling of deep sadness or sorrow, often with a touch of nostalgia. It is often used to describe a state of pensive or reflective sadness.

For instance, “The melancholy melody of the song brought tears to her eyes.”
A person might say, “Walking through the empty park on a rainy day can evoke a sense of melancholy.”
In a discussion about literature, someone might mention, “The author’s use of descriptive language created a melancholy atmosphere throughout the novel.”

20. Sorrowful

This term describes a state of deep sadness or grief. It is often used to express a feeling of sorrow or mourning.

For example, “The sorrowful expression on her face revealed the pain she was feeling.”
A person might say, “Attending a funeral can be a sorrowful experience, but it’s important to support those who are grieving.”
In a discussion about loss, someone might share, “The death of a loved one can leave you feeling sorrowful and longing for their presence.”

21. Unsettling

This word describes something that causes a feeling of unease or discomfort. It suggests that the situation is unsettling and unsettling.

For example, “The horror movie was so unsettling that I couldn’t sleep.”
A person might say, “The news about the recent crime wave is really unsettling.”
Someone might describe a disturbing image by saying, “That painting has an unsettling quality to it.”

22. Troubling

This term is used to describe something that is causing concern or anxiety. It implies that the situation is troubling and troubling.

For instance, “The increase in crime rates is troubling for the community.”
A person might say, “I find it troubling that so many people are struggling to afford basic necessities.”
Someone might express their worry by saying, “The troubling economic indicators are a cause for concern.”

23. Heart-wrenching

This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely sad or emotionally distressing. It suggests that the situation is heart-wrenching and heart-wrenching.

For example, “The movie’s ending was so heart-wrenching that it made me cry.”
A person might say, “The stories of war veterans are often heart-wrenching.”
Someone might describe a tragic event by saying, “The loss of innocent lives in the accident was absolutely heart-wrenching.”

24. Harrowing

This word is used to describe something that is extremely distressing, difficult, or traumatic. It implies that the situation is harrowing and harrowing.

For instance, “Surviving a plane crash would be a harrowing experience.”
A person might say, “The documentary about child labor was a harrowing reminder of the injustices in the world.”
Someone might describe a frightening ordeal by saying, “The hiker’s harrowing escape from the mountain was a tale of survival.”

25. Disheartened

This term is used to describe a feeling of loss of hope, enthusiasm, or motivation. It suggests that the person is disheartened and disheartened.

For example, “After failing the exam, she felt disheartened and doubted her abilities.”
A person might say, “I was disheartened to hear that my project proposal was rejected.”
Someone might express their lack of motivation by saying, “Constant setbacks have left me feeling disheartened and demotivated.”

26. Disenchanted

This term describes feeling let down or disappointed, often after having high expectations. It suggests a feeling of disillusionment or disenchantment.

For example, “I was disenchanted when the movie didn’t live up to the hype.”
Someone might say, “I used to be a big fan, but now I’m disenchanted with their music.”
A person might feel disenchanted with a relationship, saying, “I thought they were different, but I’m starting to feel disenchanted.”

27. Disillusioned

This term refers to feeling let down or disappointed after discovering that something or someone is not as good as previously believed. It implies a sense of disillusionment or loss of trust.

For instance, “I was disillusioned when I found out the truth about the company’s practices.”
Someone might say, “I used to idolize them, but now I’m disillusioned with their behavior.”
A person might feel disillusioned after a failed project, saying, “I put in so much effort, but it didn’t work out. I’m feeling disillusioned.”

28. Disappointed

This term describes the emotion of feeling let down or unsatisfied when something doesn’t meet one’s expectations. It suggests a sense of sadness or dissatisfaction.

For example, “I was disappointed when the gift didn’t arrive on time.”
Someone might say, “I had high hopes, but I was disappointed with the outcome.”
A person might feel disappointed after a missed opportunity, saying, “I worked hard for it, so I can’t help but feel disappointed.”

29. Letdown

This term refers to something or someone that fails to meet expectations or leaves one feeling disappointed. It implies a sense of being disappointed or let down.

For instance, “The movie was a letdown; it didn’t live up to the trailer.”
Someone might say, “I was expecting a great meal, but it turned out to be a letdown.”
A person might describe a failed event as a letdown, saying, “The concert was a letdown; the band didn’t perform well.”

30. Downhearted

This term describes a state of feeling sad, discouraged, or disheartened. It suggests a low mood or a lack of motivation.

For example, “I felt downhearted after receiving the rejection letter.”
Someone might say, “I’m feeling downhearted about the current state of affairs.”
A person might feel downhearted after a loss, saying, “It’s hard not to feel downhearted after such a defeat.”

31. Blue

This slang term is used to describe a feeling of sadness or melancholy. It can also refer to a state of depression or low spirits.

For example, “I’ve been feeling really blue lately, I can’t seem to shake off this sadness.”
A person might say, “I always get the blues when it rains.”
In a conversation about a breakup, someone might say, “He left me feeling blue and heartbroken.”

32. Crestfallen

When someone is crestfallen, they are deeply saddened or disappointed. It can also imply a loss of hope or enthusiasm.

For instance, “She was crestfallen when she didn’t get the job she had been hoping for.”
A person might say, “I felt crestfallen when my favorite team lost the championship.”
In a discussion about a failed project, someone might say, “The team was crestfallen after all their hard work went to waste.”

33. Downtrodden

This slang term is used to describe someone who is oppressed, oppressed, or treated unfairly. It can also refer to a feeling of being defeated or beaten down.

For example, “The downtrodden workers finally stood up for their rights.”
A person might say, “I felt downtrodden after being constantly overlooked for promotions.”
In a conversation about social justice, someone might say, “We need to fight for the rights of the downtrodden in our society.”

34. Glum

When someone is glum, they are feeling downcast or gloomy. It can also imply a lack of enthusiasm or cheerfulness.

For instance, “He sat in the corner, looking glum and lost in his thoughts.”
A person might say, “I always feel glum on rainy days.”
In a discussion about a disappointing event, someone might say, “I left the party feeling glum and unsatisfied.”

35. Woeful

This slang term is used to describe a feeling of great sadness or distress. It can also imply a sense of pity or compassion.

For example, “She had a woeful expression on her face after hearing the tragic news.”
A person might say, “I felt woeful when I heard about the devastation caused by the natural disaster.”
In a conversation about a heartbreaking story, someone might say, “The protagonist’s journey was filled with woeful moments of loss and despair.”

36. Mournful

This word describes a feeling of deep sadness or sorrow. It often implies a sense of grief or mourning.

For example, “The mournful melody brought tears to her eyes.”
A person might say, “I felt a mournful emptiness after the loss of my pet.”
In a poem or song, the lyrics might express a mournful sentiment.

37. Pessimistic

This word describes a tendency to expect the worst or to see the negative aspects of a situation. It often implies a lack of hope or optimism.

For instance, “He has a pessimistic outlook on life.”
A person might say, “I try to be positive, but sometimes I can’t help feeling pessimistic.”
In a discussion about the future, someone might express a pessimistic view.

38. Bleak

This word describes a situation or outlook that is lacking in hope or optimism. It often implies a sense of desolation or dreariness.

For example, “The future looks bleak for the company.”
A person might say, “I felt a sense of bleakness after the breakup.”
In a description of a landscape, someone might use the word bleak to convey a sense of emptiness or sadness.

39. Disconsolate

This word describes a feeling of extreme sadness or despair. It often implies a sense of being unable to find comfort or solace.

For instance, “She was disconsolate after the death of her loved one.”
A person might say, “I felt disconsolate when I failed the exam.”
In a novel or story, a character might be described as disconsolate after a devastating loss.

40. Forlorn

This word describes a feeling of being abandoned or deserted. It often implies a sense of loneliness or despair.

For example, “He looked forlorn standing alone in the rain.”
A person might say, “I felt forlorn after being rejected by my friends.”
In a description of a place, someone might use the word forlorn to convey a sense of desolation or emptiness.

41. Wretched

This term is used to describe something that is extremely unpleasant or of poor quality. It can also refer to a person who is unhappy or in a miserable state.

For example, “The movie was so wretched that I walked out halfway through.”
A person might say, “I feel wretched after hearing the news of her passing.”
Another might describe a situation as, “It’s wretched how the company treats its employees.”

42. Tear-jerking

This term is used to describe something, such as a movie or story, that evokes strong emotions, particularly sadness or sympathy.

For instance, “I watched a tear-jerking movie last night and couldn’t stop crying.”
A person might say, “The book’s ending was so tear-jerking that it stayed with me for days.”
Another might describe a scene as, “The actor’s performance was incredibly tear-jerking.”

43. Heart-rending

This term is used to describe something that is extremely sad or distressing, often causing emotional pain or anguish.

For example, “The documentary depicted the heart-rending stories of survivors.”
A person might say, “The news of the tragedy was truly heart-rending.”
Another might describe a situation as, “It’s heart-rending to see so many people suffering.”

44. Bummed out

This term is used to describe a feeling of disappointment or sadness. It can also refer to someone who is in a downcast or dejected mood.

For instance, “I was really bummed out when I didn’t get the job.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling so bummed out about the cancellation of the event.”
Another might describe a friend as, “He’s been bummed out ever since his pet passed away.”

45. Gutted

This term is used to describe a feeling of extreme disappointment or sadness, often leaving a person feeling empty or hollow inside.

For example, “I was absolutely gutted when my team lost the championship.”
A person might say, “She was gutted when she found out her flight was canceled.”
Another might describe a situation as, “I’m completely gutted about not being accepted into my dream college.”

46. Devastated

To feel extreme sadness or despair. It conveys a sense of being emotionally overwhelmed and unable to recover easily.

For example, “I was devastated when I found out I didn’t get the job.”
A person might say, “I feel devastated after the sudden loss of my pet.”
Another might express, “The news of the natural disaster left the entire community devastated.”

47. Heartbroken

To feel deep sorrow or grief, often due to a significant loss or disappointment. It implies a sense of emotional pain and longing.

For instance, “I was heartbroken when my long-term relationship ended.”
A person might say, “I feel heartbroken after the death of a loved one.”
Another might express, “She was heartbroken when her dream of becoming a professional athlete was shattered.”

48. Dejected

To feel sad, dispirited, or discouraged. It suggests a sense of low spirits or a loss of hope.

For example, “He looked dejected after receiving the rejection letter.”
A person might say, “I feel dejected when I fail to meet my own expectations.”
Another might express, “The team was dejected after losing the championship game.”

49. Deflated

To feel disheartened or discouraged, often after experiencing a setback or disappointment. It conveys a sense of losing confidence or enthusiasm.

For instance, “Her criticism deflated my excitement about the project.”
A person might say, “I feel deflated after failing the exam.”
Another might express, “The team was deflated after their star player got injured.”

50. Dispirited

To feel lacking in enthusiasm, energy, or optimism. It suggests a loss of spirit or motivation.

For example, “I felt dispirited after working long hours without recognition.”
A person might say, “I feel dispirited by the constant rejection in job interviews.”
Another might express, “The students were dispirited by the difficult exam.”

51. Dismayed

This word is used to describe a feeling of being let down or disheartened.

For example, “She was dismayed to find out she didn’t get the job.”
A person might say, “I was dismayed when I saw the final exam results.”
Someone might express their dismay by saying, “I can’t believe they canceled the concert at the last minute.”

52. Melancholic

This word is used to describe a deep sadness or a feeling of gloom.

For instance, “He has been feeling melancholic since his pet passed away.”
A person might say, “The rain always makes me feel melancholic.”
Someone might describe a sad movie as “melancholic and thought-provoking.”

53. Down in the dumps

This phrase is used to describe a state of feeling down, sad, or depressed.

For example, “She has been feeling down in the dumps ever since her relationship ended.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling really down in the dumps lately.”
Someone might ask, “What can I do to cheer you up? You seem really down in the dumps.”

54. Unhappy

This word is used to describe a general feeling of dissatisfaction or unhappiness.

For instance, “He is unhappy with his current job.”
A person might say, “I’ve been feeling unhappy in my relationship.”
Someone might express their unhappiness by saying, “I’m really unhappy with the service I received at that restaurant.”

55. Unsettled

This word is used to describe a feeling of being unsettled or disturbed, often due to a sense of uncertainty or unease.

For example, “She felt unsettled by the strange noises coming from the attic.”
A person might say, “The recent events have left me feeling unsettled.”
Someone might describe a disturbing movie as “unsettling and haunting.”

56. Unfulfilled

This term refers to a feeling of emptiness or dissatisfaction, often related to unmet expectations or goals. It can describe a state of lacking fulfillment or purpose.

For example, someone might say, “I feel unfulfilled in my current job. I need to find something that brings me joy.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might share, “I ended the relationship because I felt unfulfilled and unsatisfied.”
A person reflecting on their life choices might say, “I have a sense of unfulfilled potential, like I could have achieved more.”

57. Uninspired

This term describes a lack of inspiration or motivation. It can refer to a feeling of not being stimulated or excited by something.

For instance, a writer might say, “I’m feeling uninspired lately. I can’t seem to come up with any new ideas.”
In a conversation about art, someone might comment, “The painting didn’t move me. It felt uninspired.”
A person discussing their hobbies might say, “I used to love playing the guitar, but lately I’ve been feeling uninspired to practice.”

58. Discouraged

This term describes a feeling of being demoralized or disheartened. It can refer to a state of losing confidence or feeling dispirited.

For example, someone might say, “I applied for several jobs and got rejected from all of them. I’m feeling discouraged.”
In a discussion about personal goals, someone might share, “I’ve been facing setbacks and it’s making me feel discouraged.”
A person reflecting on their progress might say, “I’ve been working hard, but I’m starting to feel discouraged because I’m not seeing the results I expected.”

59. Morose

This term describes a feeling of being gloomy or sullen. It can refer to a state of sadness or depression.

For instance, someone might say, “He has been acting morose lately. I wonder what’s bothering him.”
In a conversation about emotions, someone might comment, “I’m feeling morose today. I just can’t shake this sadness.”
A person discussing their mood might say, “I’ve been feeling morose for a while now. I think I need to seek help.”

60. Miserable

This term describes a state of extreme unhappiness or suffering. It can refer to a feeling of being miserable or in a state of despair.

For example, someone might say, “I had a terrible day at work. I feel miserable.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might share, “I was in a toxic relationship and it made me feel miserable.”
A person reflecting on their overall well-being might say, “I realized I was living a miserable life and decided to make some changes.”