What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heartbreak
Example
She experienced heartbreak when her boyfriend broke up with her. [heartbreak: noun]
Example
He was heartbroken when he found out she had been cheating on him. [heartbroken: adjective]
despair
Example
She felt despair when she lost her job and couldn't pay her bills. [despair: noun]
Example
He was in despair after his father passed away. [despair: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Heartbreak is more commonly used than despair in everyday language, especially in the context of romantic relationships. Despair is a more formal and literary term that is less common in everyday conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heartbreak and despair?
Despair is a more formal and literary term that is often used in serious and somber contexts, such as literature, poetry, or psychology. Heartbreak, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
