What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sad
Example
She felt sad after hearing the news. [sad: adjective]
Example
It's sad to see so much destruction from the storm. [sad: adjective]
Example
He looked sad and distant at the party. [sad: adjective]
downcast
Example
She walked away with a downcast expression on her face. [downcast: adjective]
Example
He spoke in a downcast tone, conveying his disappointment. [downcast: adjective]
Example
The team had a downcast posture after losing the game. [downcast: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sad is more commonly used than downcast in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Downcast is less common and may be considered more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sad and downcast?
Downcast is considered more formal than sad and may be used in more professional or academic settings. Sad is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
