What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
miserabilism
Example
His novels are often criticized for their miserabilism, as they depict a bleak and hopeless world. [miserabilism: noun]
Example
She accused him of wallowing in miserabilism and refusing to see any good in the world. [miserabilism: gerund or present participle]
pessimism
Example
He has a pessimistic view of the economy and thinks we're headed for a recession. [pessimistic: adjective]
Example
Her pessimism about the future of the planet is understandable given the current state of affairs. [pessimism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pessimism is more commonly used than miserabilism in everyday language. Pessimism is a more general term that can be applied to various situations and contexts, while miserabilism is more specific and often associated with a particular style or genre in art or literature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between miserabilism and pessimism?
Both miserabilism and pessimism can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience. However, miserabilism may be seen as more niche or specialized, while pessimism is a more versatile term that can be employed in various formality levels.