What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
desperation
Example
She felt a sense of desperation when she lost her job. [desperation: noun]
Example
He acted out of desperation when he stole the money. [desperation: noun]
misery
Example
The loss of her loved one brought her great misery. [misery: noun]
Example
He suffered from a chronic illness that caused him constant misery. [misery: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misery is more commonly used than desperation in everyday language. Misery is a versatile word that can be used to describe a range of negative emotions, while desperation is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between desperation and misery?
Both desperation and misery can be used in formal and informal contexts, but desperation may be more commonly used in professional or urgent situations, while misery may be more associated with personal or emotional contexts.
