Communicative Goal: Describing Sadness
Context: Modern Life
Part 1, Speaking: The words listed below are all synonyms of the adjective “sad.” Each varies slightly from the others in meaning and use. Discuss the definition and application of each word.
1. bitter: (adjective) sad
(formal/informal, negative, strong, especially in the sense of “angry”)
Example: She is bitter because I broke up with her.
2. dejected: (adjective)
sad (formal, negative, very strong, especially in the sense of “disappointed”)
Example: Being consistently rejected
makes you feel dejected!
3. heartbroken: (adjective)
sad (formal, neutral, general, strong, romantic)
Example: The divorce left them heartbroken.
4. somber: (adjective) sad
(formal, neutral, strong, especially in the sense of “serious”)
Example: Judges usually appear somber.
5. sorrowful: (adjective) sad
(formal, neutral, romantic, especially in the sense of “regretful”)
Example: He feels sorrowful for his crimes.
Part 2, Reading Exercise: Complete the reading passage with the most appropriate vocabulary.
Life presents many ups and downs and many occasions to share happiness
and sadness. Whereas weddings are usually joyous celebrations, for example, funerals
are much more __________ affairs.
Although romance inspires great happiness, it can also lead to feeling
__________. Ultimately, many appreciate Tennyson's observation that “tis better to have loved and lost
than never to have loved at all.” Still, we can all feel __________ over old
flames.
In the modern world, finances can also contribute to great sadness. In a
struggling economy, laid off employees often feel __________ towards their
ex-employers. If prospective employers consistently turn them down, they can
become __________ and may require
professional help.
© James Doyle, 2013
Vocabulary Class:
Are you interested in learning more vocabulary? Take this great class!
Answers:
The answers to this exercise are available at the following link:
Are you interested in learning more vocabulary? Take this great class!
Answers:
The answers to this exercise are available at the following link:
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