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Dismay - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Dismay is a feeling of distress or disappointment caused by something unexpected or unsettling. It often involves a loss of hope or confidence in a situation.

dismay

/dɪsˈmeɪ/ /dɪsˈmeɪ/

Definition:

A feeling of distress or alarm caused by something unexpected or disappointing.

Synonyms:

alarm, consternation, distress, discouragement

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

delight, pleasure

Common Collocations:

express dismay, feel dismay, cause dismay, great dismay

Derivatives:

dismayed, dismaying

Usage Tips:

Use "dismay" to describe a sudden loss of courage or hope due to an unwelcome event.

Common Phrases:

to one's dismay, in dismay, much to my dismay

Etymology:

From Old French "desmaier," meaning "to lose strength," combining "des-" (away) and "maier" (to power).

Examples:

  • 1. She watched in dismay as the vase shattered on the floor.
  • 2. His failure filled him with deep dismay.
  • 3. To her dismay, the concert was canceled last minute.
  • 4. The team's poor performance caused widespread dismay among fans.

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