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]
dishearten
Example
The rejection letter disheartened him and made him question his career choice. [disheartened: verb]
Example
The lack of progress on the project disheartened the team and made them feel like giving up. [disheartened: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dishearten is more commonly used than demoralize in everyday language. Dishearten is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while demoralize is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between demoralize and dishearten?
Both demoralize and dishearten can be used in formal or informal contexts, but demoralize may have a slightly more formal tone due to its less common usage.