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dispiriting

Dispiriting (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

/dɪˈspɪrɪtɪŋ/

What does dispiriting mean?

Causing a loss of hope, enthusiasm, or motivation.
"The constant rejection letters were dispiriting for the aspiring writer."

Detailed Meaning of Dispiriting

When faced with dispiriting circumstances or experiences, one's spirit is dampened, and a sense of discouragement or disappointment prevails. This adjective is often used to depict situations, events, or outcomes that are disheartening, demoralizing, or dismaying. It conveys a sense of negativity and can evoke feelings of sadness, frustration, or disillusionment. Dispiriting situations may include setbacks, failures, or repeated disappointments that erode one's confidence or optimism. It can also be applied to aspects of society or the world at large that are perceived as bleak, unjust, or lacking in positive prospects. Overall, the term "dispiriting" encapsulates the emotional impact of circumstances or events that diminish hope, leaving individuals feeling disheartened or dejected.

Example Sentences for Dispiriting

1. The constant rain made for a dispiriting vacation.
2. The team's loss was a dispiriting end to a great season.
3. It's dispiriting to see the once-vibrant neighborhood in such decline.
4. Her dispiriting remarks about my project made me lose motivation.
5. The empty streets in the town were a dispiriting sight.
6. The concert was dispiriting; the band seemed unenthusiastic and tired.

Origin and Etymology of Dispiriting

The adjective 'dispiriting' has its roots in the word 'spirit,' which can be traced back to the Latin term 'spiritus,' meaning 'breath' or 'spirit.' The prefix 'dis-' in 'dispiriting' is used to indicate negation or reversal. Therefore, etymologically, 'dispiriting' can be understood as 'causing a loss of spirit' or 'taking away one's breath or enthusiasm.' Over time, this word has evolved to describe situations or experiences that have a demoralizing effect, leading to a loss of hope, enthusiasm, or motivation. The etymology of 'dispiriting' reflects its ability to convey the idea of something being disheartening or discouraging, which can result in a sense of pessimism or despondency.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective dispiriting:

demoralizing

uplifting

encouraging

inspiring

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Dispiriting

1. I find it dispiriting that so few people vote in local elections.
2. The polluted river is a dispiriting reminder of the factory's impact.
3. He tried to stay positive, but the job rejections were dispiriting.
4. The movie's predictable plot and shallow characters were dispiriting.
5. The dispiriting weather caused us to cancel the outdoor event.
6. It's dispiriting to think about the environmental challenges we face.
7. The lack of enthusiasm from the crowd was dispiriting for the performers.
8. It's dispiriting to read news articles that focus only on the negatives.
9. The long, unproductive meetings were a dispiriting aspect of her job.
10. The fall in stock prices was a dispiriting blow to investors.
11. The lack of progress on the project has been dispiriting for the team.
12. His cynical outlook on life can be quite dispiriting to be around.
13. The dispiriting reality of poverty is often ignored by those in power.
14. The garden looked dispiriting after the harsh winter, with wilted plants everywhere.