What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
downness
Example
I can't seem to shake off this feeling of downness. [downness: noun]
Example
She was overcome with a sense of downness after receiving the bad news. [downness: noun]
sadness
Example
He couldn't hide his sadness at the loss of his beloved pet. [sadness: noun]
Example
She felt a deep sense of sadness wash over her as she read the heartbreaking news. [sadness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sadness is a more common and widely recognized emotion than downness. Sadness is a universal human experience that is often portrayed in art, literature, and media. In contrast, downness is a less common and less recognized emotion that may not be as familiar to many people.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between downness and sadness?
Both downness and sadness are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.