Another Word for Sad: 16 Synonyms with Examples
“Sad” covers a range of feelings, from mild disappointment to deep grief. A stronger or more specific word often fits better.
As an adjective: feeling sorrow
- unhappy
- sorrowful
- miserable
- gloomy
- downcast
- dejected
- heartbroken
- down
- melancholy
As an adjective: causing sorrow
- upsetting
- tragic
- heartbreaking
- distressing
- depressing
- poignant
- unfortunate
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- unhappy
- General and neutral; also used for dissatisfaction.
- down
- Informal: mildly low in mood.
- heartbroken
- Overwhelmed with grief, often after a loss.
- melancholy
- A thoughtful, lasting sadness; literary.
- poignant
- For things that cause sadness in a moving, touching way.
Example sentences
- unhappy: Many residents are unhappy about the new road.
- down: I've been feeling a bit down this week.
- heartbroken: The children were heartbroken when the dog died.
- melancholy: The song has a melancholy tune.
- poignant: The film ends on a poignant note.
Opposite of sad
- happy
- cheerful
- glad
- joyful
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “sad”. Check the meaning before you use one.
adjective: deplorable, lamentable, pitiful, sorry
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “sad”?
The most useful alternatives are “unhappy”, “sorrowful”, “miserable”, “gloomy”, “downcast”. For the main sense (feeling sorrow), “unhappy” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “unhappy” and “down”?
unhappy: General and neutral; also used for dissatisfaction. down: Informal: mildly low in mood.
What is the opposite of “sad”?
Common antonyms are “happy”, “cheerful”, “glad”, “joyful”.