Word: dejection

Associations

Dejection means a state of sadness or low spirits. It is when someone feels very down or unhappy.

• After losing the match, he felt a deep sense of dejection. This shows how losing can affect one's emotions.
• She sat alone in dejection, staring out the window. Here, the person is physically showing her sadness.
• The news of his friend moving away filled him with dejection. This example illustrates how external circumstances can bring on feelings of sadness.

The word "depression" is a synonym, but it is more intense and can refer to a medical condition. Dejection is usually temporary and based on specific events, whereas depression is often long-lasting and requires treatment.

Substitution

Other words or phrases that can be used instead of "dejection" include:

• Sadness: This is more general and can refer to different levels of unhappiness.
• Despondency: This means a more profound level of hopelessness and despair.
• Melancholy: This has a poetic sense and can imply a more reflective sadness.

Deconstruction

The word "dejection" comes from the Latin "dejectio," which is made up of "de-" meaning "down" and "jectio" meaning "throwing." It literally translates to "throwing down," which relates to feeling thrown down emotionally. The prefix "de-" suggests a lowering or removal, while "ject" relates to throwing.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you felt dejection? What caused it?
• How do you usually cheer yourself up when feeling dejected?
• In what situations do you think people are more prone to feel dejection?