What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sadness
Example
I felt a deep sense of sadness when my pet passed away. [sadness: noun]
Example
She couldn't hide the sadness in her voice when she spoke about her failed relationship. [sadness: noun]
sorrow
Example
The whole community felt a great sense of sorrow after the tragic accident. [sorrow: noun]
Example
He was consumed by sorrow after the death of his best friend. [sorrow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sadness is more commonly used than sorrow in everyday language. Sadness is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while sorrow is less common and is usually reserved for more serious or profound situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sadness and sorrow?
Both sadness and sorrow can be used in formal and informal contexts, but sorrow is often associated with a more serious and somber tone, making it more appropriate for formal situations.
