What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dissatisfied
Example
The customer was dissatisfied with the quality of the product. [dissatisfied: adjective]
Example
She felt dissatisfied with her current job and was considering a career change. [dissatisfied: adjective]
unhappy
Example
He was unhappy with the way his life was going. [unhappy: adjective]
Example
She felt unhappy after her best friend moved away. [unhappy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unhappy is more commonly used than dissatisfied in everyday language. Unhappy is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of negative emotions, while dissatisfied is a more specific term that is often used in the context of customer service or job satisfaction.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dissatisfied and unhappy?
Both dissatisfied and unhappy can be used in formal and informal contexts, but dissatisfied is more commonly used in professional settings, such as customer service or job evaluations.
