Definition

In a way that makes someone feel less hopeful or confident about something.

Example

She looked at the results discouragingly, knowing they were not what she had hoped for.

Conversation

I was feeling really motivated to start my project, but then I read some reviews that were discouragingly negative.

That sounds tough! It's hard to stay positive with all that negativity around.

I know, right? It just makes me want to give up sometimes.

Don't let it get to you! Focus on your own progress instead.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Discouragingly → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "courage" (from Latin "coraticum", meaning heart or spirit) and the suffix "-ingly" (meaning in a manner). The word describes an action done in a way that takes away heart or spirit, leading to a feeling of discouragement.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dis-' meaning 'away' and 'courage' relating to 'heart' — when something is done 'in a manner' that takes away your heart, it feels discouraging.

Visually Confused Words