What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
saddening
Example
The news of the accident was saddening. [saddening: adjective]
Example
It is saddening to see so many people struggling with poverty. [saddening: gerund or present participle]
disheartening
Example
The team's loss was disheartening for their fans. [disheartening: adjective]
Example
It can be disheartening to face rejection after putting in so much effort. [disheartening: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Saddening is more commonly used than disheartening in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more versatile. Disheartening is less frequently used and is more formal, making it suitable for more serious or professional contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between saddening and disheartening?
Disheartening is more formal than saddening and is often used in professional or academic settings. Saddening is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
