What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tristfulness
Example
She couldn't help but feel a sense of tristfulness as she watched the sunset. [tristfulness: noun]
Example
He spoke with tristfulness about the end of his relationship. [tristfulness: noun]
melancholy
Example
The music had a melancholy tone that matched her mood. [melancholy: adjective]
Example
He was consumed by melancholy after the loss of his father. [melancholy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Melancholy is more commonly used than tristfulness in everyday language. Melancholy is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of emotions, while tristfulness is less common and may be considered more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tristfulness and melancholy?
Tristfulness may be considered more formal or literary than melancholy, which is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
