Dejectedly describes an action performed with a profound sense of unhappiness, deep disappointment, or the absence of hope.
Understanding "Dejectedly"
The adverb dejectedly is used to describe an action carried out in a manner that visibly conveys feelings of sadness, profound disappointment, or a distinct lack of hope. It provides insight into the emotional state accompanying an action, indicating that the person performing it is feeling downcast or dispirited.
For a deeper understanding, you can refer to the definition of "dejectedly" on the Cambridge Dictionary.
Key Characteristics of "Dejectedly"
When someone acts dejectedly, their actions are often characterized by:
- Expressing profound unhappiness or sorrow.
- Indicating deep disappointment about an outcome or situation.
- Conveying a feeling of being without hope for the future or a resolution.
- Often accompanied by body language such as slow movements, a downcast gaze, slumped shoulders, or a general lack of energy and enthusiasm.
How to Use Dejectedly in Sentences
As an adverb, "dejectedly" modifies verbs, describing how an action is performed. It paints a vivid picture of the emotional backdrop to the action.
Practical Examples:
- She sighed dejectedly upon hearing the bad news, her shoulders slumping.
- After the championship loss, the team walked off the field dejectedly, their heads bowed.
- He looked dejectedly at the broken toy, his eyes welling up with tears.
- They sat dejectedly in silence, unable to find words after the unexpected setback.
- The artist packed up her unsold paintings dejectedly, feeling discouraged by the exhibition.
Synonyms and Antonyms of Dejectedly
Understanding words with similar and opposite meanings can further clarify the use and impact of "dejectedly."
A Comparative Look:
| Synonyms (Similar Meaning) | Antonyms (Opposite Meaning) |
|---|---|
| Sadly | Cheerfully |
| Despondently | Happily |
| Gloomily | Optimistically |
| Forlornly | Hopefully |
| Despairingly | Enthusiastically |
| Disheartenedly | Joyfully |
The Emotional Impact
Acting dejectedly communicates a state of mind that goes beyond mere words. It often manifests through non-verbal cues, making the underlying feelings of sadness, disappointment, or hopelessness evident to observers. This powerful adverb allows writers and speakers to convey deep emotional resonance in their descriptions.
