What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dolour
Example
The family was in dolour after the sudden death of their beloved pet. [dolour: noun]
Example
She couldn't shake off the dolour that had settled in her heart. [dolour: noun]
sorrow
Example
He expressed his sorrow at the news of her passing. [sorrow: noun]
Example
She felt a deep sense of sorrow for the way she had treated her friend. [sorrow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sorrow is more commonly used than dolour in everyday language. Sorrow is a versatile word that can be used to describe a range of negative emotions, while dolour is a more formal and less common word that is typically reserved for more serious or somber situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dolour and sorrow?
Dolour is a more formal word than sorrow. It is typically used in more serious or somber contexts, such as literature, poetry, or formal speeches. Sorrow, on the other hand, is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.