sorrow - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sorrow Word Meanings
- a feeling of deep distress caused by loss or disappointment
- sadness or regret
- grief or misery
sorrow Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sorrow Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsɒrəʊ/
US
/ˈsɔːroʊ/
sorrow Word Etymology
sorrow = sor- (to feel) + row (to distress). Origin: Latin 'sorgere' → Old French 'sorowr' → English 'sorrow'. Memory image: Imagine a heavy heart encased in a dark storm cloud, pouring rain of tears.
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
Sorrow is a deep, heavy feeling that follows loss, disappointment, or tragedy. It goes beyond ordinary sadness and carries a sense of lasting regret or misfortune. In English you can speak of 'great sorrow', 'sorrowful news', or 'to sorrow' for someone, though the verb is rare and poetic today. Sorrow can mix with empathy, leading to compassion. Distinguish it from mere sadness by its weight, duration, and sometimes cultural or religious contexts. Expressions such as 'sorrow drains the heart' or 'to bear someone’s sorrow' are common in literature. In everyday English, people often replace it with 'sadness' for casual speech, reserving sorrow for solemn moments.
Usage Reminders
- Sorrow is a noun; you can say great sorrow or sorrowful news. The verb form ‘to sorrow’ is rare and literary. It is heavier than ordinary sadness. Distinguish grief from sorrow by duration. Use sorrow with people’s losses or tragic events. In literature, sorrow often conveys collective or communal mourning.
Common Misconceptions
- Sorrow = everyday sadness; it only occurs after death.
- Sorrow is the same as grief or regret in all contexts.
- You can freely use sorrow as a verb in modern speech.
- Sorrow always has a religious or cultural dimension.
- Sorrow is a positive feeling because it is deep.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, sorrow signals heavy, lasting grief and is more literary than everyday sadness.
Learning Tips
- Learn sorrow as a noun; use 'great sorrow' for strong grief.
- Remember the verb form 'to sorrow' is archaic; prefer 'sorrow' or 'be sorrowful'.
- Compare with sadness and grief to pick the right shade of meaning.
- Use sorrow in formal writing or literature; reserve for solemn contexts.
- Pair with collocations like 'sorrow over', 'to bear someone's sorrow'.
- Practice paraphrase: convert sorrow into phrases of consolation or empathy.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'sorrow'?
A.Intense joy
B.Complete contentment
C.Deep sadness
D.Eternal happiness
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'sorrow' used correctly?
A.She laughed in sorrow at the joke.
B.His sorrow turned into excitement quickly.
C.The news filled her with sorrow.
D.They celebrated their sorrow with a party.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'sorrow'?
A.Glee
B.Joy
C.Despair
D.Happiness
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-world situation would someone experience 'sorrow'?
A.Winning a jackpot
B.Losing a loved one
C.Attending a wedding
D.Graduating from college
Step 5: Mastery
Can you describe a time when you felt 'sorrow'?
A.Happy memories
B.Internal reflection
C.Exciting adventures
D.Interesting discussions
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