What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
threnodic
Example
The threnodic music played at the funeral was very moving. [threnodic: adjective]
Example
The poet wrote a threnodic elegy in memory of his deceased friend. [threnodic: adjective]
mournful
Example
The mournful look on her face showed that she was still grieving. [mournful: adjective]
Example
The mournful melody of the song brought tears to my eyes. [mournful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mournful is more commonly used than threnodic in everyday language. Mournful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while threnodic is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between threnodic and mournful?
Threnodic has a more formal and literary connotation than mournful, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.