dejected - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dejected Word Meanings
- feeling sad and hopeless
- in low spirits
- disheartened or depressed
dejected Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dejected Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈdʒɛktɪd/
US
/dɪˈdʒɛktɪd/
dejected Word Etymology
The word is composed of the prefix 'de-' meaning 'down' and the root 'ject' derived from Latin 'iacere' meaning 'to throw.' It has its origins from Latin to Old French before entering English. Imagine a person being thrown down to the ground, overwhelmed by sadness, which vividly represents 'dejected.'
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
dejected is an adjective describing a mood of sadness mixed with defeat and hopelessness. It is stronger than simple sadness and often follows failure, bad news, or rejection. People who are dejected may seem withdrawn, with downcast eyes and slumped shoulders. Use it with feel, look, or become: I felt dejected after the interview, The team looked dejected after losing. It is closely related to dispirited, despondent, or crestfallen, but it conveys personal disappointment rather than a broad sense of gloom. The nuance sits between sad and depressed, signaling a temporary setback rather than a clinical condition.
Usage Reminders
- Use after a clear setback; not for minor disappointments.
- Pair with feel, look, or become.
- It is stronger than sad but not as severe as depressed.
- Avoid using for casual moods or everyday irritations.
- Remember related words like dispirited, crestfallen, and despondent.
Common Misconceptions
- It means being clinically depressed.
- It only describes momentary sadness.
- It can replace all phrases for disappointment in any situation.
- It is used for minor irritations rather than big setbacks.
- It is interchangeable with upset in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
A quick note for English learners: dejected signals a stronger, personal disappointment than merely being sad, often tied to a concrete setback. It is not the same as depressed, which implies a deeper, longer-lasting condition.
Learning Tips
- Learn the common collocations feel dejected and look dejected.
- Compare dejected with dispirited and crestfallen to see nuance.
- Practice after concrete setbacks, not for minor disappointments.
- Use visual cues like posture to reinforce meaning.
- Create two quick sentences: one for a setback, one for a long-term mood.
- Read and listen for dejected in news about sports, exams, or job news.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'dejected'?
A.Happy and cheerful
B.Eager and excited
C.Feeling sad or disheartened
D.Confused and lost
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'dejected' correctly?
A.The dejected painting hung on the wall.
B.He dejectedly painted the fence.
C.She felt dejected after losing the game.
D.They were dejected with joy at the party.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'dejected'?
A.Joyful
B.Gloomy
C.Excited
D.Optimistic
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'dejected'?
A.Elated
B.Sad
C.Melancholic
D.Disappointed
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone might feel dejected?
A.After receiving a job rejection, she felt hopeful.
B.He was dejected when he heard the sad news.
C.The crowd cheered for the winning team.
D.She felt dejected while enjoying a warm cup of coffee.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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