Formal and Informal Expressions of grief

In different contexts, you can replace 'grief' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'sorrow, mourning' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'heartache, sadness' is a commonplace synonym.

grief: Explore its Definition & Usage

grief Definition

deep sorrow, especially that caused by someone's death.

Using grief: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "grief" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
She was overcome with grief when her husband died.
Example
The family is still in the midst of their grieving process.
Example
He expressed his grief over the loss of his friend.
Example
The nation is in mourning over the tragedy.

grief Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for grief

Antonyms for grief

Idioms Using grief

come to grief
to experience failure or disaster
Example
Their business venture came to grief after only a few months.
good grief
an exclamation of surprise or frustration
Example
Good grief! I can't believe you ate the whole pizza by yourself.
take grief from someone
to endure criticism or abuse from someone
Example
He's not the type of person to take grief from anyone.

Phrases with grief

grief-stricken
overwhelmed with grief
Example
She was grief-stricken after the death of her son.
grief counseling
therapy or support provided to help people cope with their grief
Example
After the funeral, the family attended grief counseling sessions to help them deal with their loss.
grief work
the process of working through one's grief and emotions after a loss
Example
She spent months doing grief work after the death of her father.

Origins of grief

from Old French 'grever', meaning 'burden'

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Summary: grief in Brief

The term 'grief' [ɡriːf] refers to deep sorrow, particularly related to the death of someone. It is a universal human experience that can be overwhelming and long-lasting. Phrases like 'grief-stricken,' 'grief counseling,' and 'grief work' describe the intensity and process of coping with grief. Idioms like 'come to grief' and 'good grief' extend the meaning to failure and surprise, respectively.