dour
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “dour” mean?
adjective.relentlessly severe, stern, or gloomy in manner or appearance.
SAT Usage
this word is often used in passages that explore themes of character, mood, or emotional atmosphere, frequently in contexts involving serious or challenging situations. It emphasizes a sense of unwavering seriousness or a lack of warmth, distinguishing it from similar words like "stern," which may not carry the same connotation of gloominess.
Common Confusions
dour implies a relentless severity and gloominess, while stern usually suggests a strictness that may not carry the same heavy, oppressive atmosphere.
Do not choose dour if the context emphasizes cheerfulness or lightheartedness rather than relentlessness in severity, sternness, or gloominess in manner or appearance.
Example Sentences
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The dour general barked orders without the faintest smile.
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The dour monastery had no decorations and minimal furniture.