What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dismal
Example
The team's performance was dismal, and they lost the game. [dismal: adjective]
Example
The abandoned house had a dismal atmosphere, with broken windows and peeling paint. [dismal: adjective]
gloomy
Example
The sky was gloomy and overcast, with no sign of sunshine. [gloomy: adjective]
Example
She felt gloomy and downhearted after receiving the bad news. [gloomy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gloomy is more commonly used than dismal in everyday language. Gloomy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dismal is less common and refers to a more severe or extreme situation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dismal and gloomy?
Both dismal and gloomy are typically associated with an informal or neutral tone, although dismal may be considered slightly more formal due to its Latin and French roots.
