despondent
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “despondent” mean?
adjective.in low spirits from loss of hope or courage.
SAT Usage
despondent is often found in passages that explore themes of loss, disappointment, or emotional struggle. It emphasizes a deep, pervasive sense of hopelessness that transcends mere sadness, distinguishing it from similar terms like "melancholy" or "unhappy," which may not convey the same intensity of despair.
Common Confusions
Despondent implies a deep, pervasive sense of hopelessness, while melancholy usually suggests a more reflective or wistful sadness that may not encompass the same level of despair.
Example Sentences
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After months of failure, the researcher felt deeply despondent.
Word Parts: How to Remember “despondent”
Break “despondent” into its parts: de- (down, away, un-). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
de-down, away, un- (Latin)