What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grieved
Example
She grieved for months after her husband passed away. [grieved: verb]
Example
The family gathered to grieve together at the funeral. [grieve: verb]
sorrowful
Example
He looked sorrowful after hearing the news of his friend's passing. [sorrowful: adjective]
Example
The movie had a sorrowful ending that left many viewers in tears. [sorrowful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sorrowful is more commonly used than grieved in everyday language. Sorrowful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while grieved is less common and typically used in more serious or somber situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between grieved and sorrowful?
Both grieved and sorrowful are associated with a formal tone and are appropriate for use in serious or somber contexts.