What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wretchedness
Example
The wretchedness of the refugees was heart-wrenching. [wretchedness: noun]
Example
He lived in wretchedness, unable to afford basic necessities. [wretchedness: noun]
misery
Example
The victims of the earthquake were left in misery and despair. [misery: noun]
Example
She was consumed by misery after losing her job. [misery: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misery is more commonly used than wretchedness in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wretchedness and misery?
Wretchedness may be considered more formal or literary than misery, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
