melancholy - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
melancholy Word Meanings
- a deep, persistent sadness
- a state of melancholic reflection
- a feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause
melancholy Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
melancholy Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmɛl.ən.kɒl.i/
US
/ˈmɛl.ən.kɑː.li/
melancholy Word Etymology
melan- = black + chole = bile (Greek); from Greek via Latin to Old French and English. Imagine a dark, heavy cloud overhead representing sadness, just like melancholics often feel weighed down by their emotions.
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
Melancholy is a noun describing a deep, persistent sadness that linger s over time and often feels more reflective than urgent. In everyday English it can describe a mood, a mood of quiet pensiveness, or the atmosphere of a scene or work of art that carries a gentle, somber beauty. It contrasts with a temporary mood of sadness or outright depression by its subtle, lingering quality and its association with contemplation or reminiscence rather than crisis. The word is commonly used in literary or artistic contexts, and its related adjective is melancholic. Its etymology comes from Greek melan- 'black' and chole 'bile'.
Usage Reminders
- Use in literary or artistic contexts
- Not a medical term
- Pair with mood nouns: mood, atmosphere, tone
- Common collocations: melancholy mood, melancholy beauty, melancholic music
- Avoid applying to everyday brief sadness
- Remember its Greek root about color and bile
Common Misconceptions
- Not the same as clinical depression
- Not a temporary mood of sadness
- Used in literary or artistic contexts
- Can describe atmosphere or art, not only a person
- Often paired with adjectives like 'melancholic' rather than 'sad'
Thinking Differences
English uses melancholy as a literary or artistic mood rather than a clinical condition. It signals a lingering, reflective sadness or a contemplative atmosphere, often with a nostalgic touch. Learners should avoid overusing it in casual complaint or everyday mood; reserve it for songs, poems, films, and descriptions of artful scenes. Distinguish it from 'sad' or 'depressed' by tone and duration; check collocations like 'melancholy mood' or 'melancholy beauty'. The root from Greek adds a formal, timeless flavor.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun and the adjective form melancholic
- Use with mood words: mood, atmosphere, tone
- Pair with art or literature contexts
- Differentiate from depression in intensity and duration
- Try common collocations: melancholy mood, melancholy beauty, melancholic music
- Listen for the literary vibe in poetry and songs
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'melancholy'?
A.Sad
B.Angry
C.Excited
D.Happy
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following is a correct usage of 'melancholy'?
A.They were angry at the surprise party.
B.He was ecstatic about failing the exam.
C.She felt melancholy after receiving the good news.
D.The sun was shining brightly on the rainy day.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'melancholy'?
A.Joyful
B.Energetic
C.Peaceful
D.Gloomy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'melancholy'?
A.Hopeful
B.Cheerful
C.Happy
D.Lively
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone experience 'melancholy'?
A.Attending a funeral
B.Having a birthday party
C.Winning the lottery
D.Graduating from college
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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