What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
demoralize
Example
The team was demoralized after losing the championship game. [demoralized: verb]
Example
The constant criticism from her boss demoralized her and made her doubt her abilities. [demoralized: adjective]
discourage
Example
Don't let setbacks discourage you from pursuing your dreams. [discourage: verb]
Example
The lack of support from her family discouraged her from continuing with her education. [discouraged: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discourage is more commonly used than demoralize in everyday language. Discourage is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while demoralize is less common and refers to a more intense and specific emotional state.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demoralize and discourage?
Both demoralize and discourage can be used in formal and informal contexts, but demoralize may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
