What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disillusionment
Example
After learning about the company's unethical practices, she felt a sense of disillusionment. [disillusionment: noun]
Example
He was disillusioned by the politician's broken promises and lack of action. [disillusioned: adjective]
disappointment
Example
I felt a deep sense of disappointment when I didn't get the job. [disappointment: noun]
Example
She was disappointed with the quality of the food at the restaurant. [disappointed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disappointment is more commonly used than disillusionment in everyday language. Disappointment is a common emotion that people experience regularly, while disillusionment is less common and often associated with more significant life events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disillusionment and disappointment?
Both disillusionment and disappointment can be used in formal and informal contexts, but disillusionment may be considered more formal due to its less frequent use in everyday language.