What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
malcontentment
Example
His malcontentment with his job led him to look for other opportunities. [malcontentment: noun]
Example
She couldn't hide her malcontentment with the way things were going. [malcontentment: noun]
discontent
Example
The employees expressed their discontent with the new policy. [discontent: noun]
Example
He was discontent with the way things were going in his life. [discontent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discontent is more commonly used than malcontentment in everyday language. Discontent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while malcontentment is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between malcontentment and discontent?
Malcontentment is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while discontent is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.