What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gloom
Example
The gloom of the forest made it difficult to see. [gloom: noun]
Example
She felt a sense of gloom after receiving the bad news. [gloom: noun]
despondency
Example
He sank into despondency after losing his job. [despondency: noun]
Example
Her despondency was evident in her lack of interest in anything. [despondency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gloom is more commonly used than despondency in everyday language. Gloom is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while despondency is more formal and less frequently used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gloom and despondency?
Despondency is more formal and less frequently used than gloom. It is typically employed in more serious or academic contexts, while gloom can be used in both formal and informal settings.