What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
despair
Example
She was filled with despair when she heard the news. [despair: noun]
Example
He despaired of ever finding a job in his field. [despaired: past tense]
hopelessness
Example
The patient's condition left her with a sense of hopelessness. [hopelessness: noun]
Example
He felt a sense of hopelessness as he watched the destruction caused by the hurricane. [hopelessness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Despair and hopelessness are both commonly used in everyday language, but despair may be more frequently used in literature or dramatic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between despair and hopelessness?
Both despair and hopelessness are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
