discouragement

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /dɪsˈkɜːrɪdʒmənt/

KK: /dɪsˈkɜrɪdʒmənt/

noun

Definition

A feeling of having lost confidence or enthusiasm; a situation that makes someone feel less hopeful or motivated.

Example

After receiving the negative feedback, she felt a sense of discouragement about her project.

Conversation

I felt a lot of discouragement during my last project.

I can understand that; setbacks can really take a toll on you.

Yeah, it was tough to stay motivated with all the challenges.

Just remember, every challenge is a chance to learn and grow!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

disheartenment

dismay

despondency

Antonyms

encouragement

inspiration

motivation

Root Explanation

Discouragement is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "courage" (from Latin "cor" meaning heart, and the suffix "-ment" which indicates the action or result of). The word describes the action of taking away one's heart or confidence, leading to a loss of spirit or motivation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dis-' meaning 'away' and 'courage' relating to 'heart' — discouragement means taking away one's heart or confidence.

Visually Confused Words

prediscouragement

overdiscouragement

disgorgement