Definitions
- Describing a feeling of longing or nostalgia for something that has passed or is unattainable. - Referring to a melancholic or pensive mood, often accompanied by a sense of regret. - Talking about a wistful expression or gaze that conveys a sense of sadness or longing.
- Describing a strong desire or longing for something that is absent or unattainable. - Referring to an intense feeling of wanting or needing something that is out of reach. - Talking about a yearning heart or soul that longs for something more or something better.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a strong feeling of longing or desire.
- 2Both words convey a sense of sadness or melancholy.
- 3Both words can be used to describe an emotional state or expression.
- 4Both words suggest that something is missing or unfulfilled.
- 5Both words can be used to describe a person's innermost feelings.
What is the difference?
- 1Intensity: Yearning is typically stronger and more intense than wistful.
- 2Focus: Wistful tends to focus on the past or on something that is unattainable, while yearning can be directed towards something that is still within reach.
- 3Action: Yearning implies a desire to take action or make changes to achieve what is desired, while wistful suggests a more passive acceptance of the situation.
- 4Duration: Wistful can be a fleeting feeling or mood, while yearning tends to be a more persistent and enduring emotion.
- 5Connotation: Wistful has a more nostalgic and sentimental connotation, while yearning can be associated with a more urgent or passionate desire.
Remember this!
Wistful and yearning are both words that describe a strong feeling of longing or desire. However, yearning is typically more intense and focused on achieving something that is still within reach, while wistful tends to be more passive and nostalgic, focusing on something that is unattainable or in the past.
