Synonyms for

Dismay

Verb / dɪˈsmeɪ / Another word for dismay — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To cause someone to feel distressed or discouraged.

Synonyms & similar words

castdown demoralize demoralise appal discouragement horrify deject depress alarm elate appall dispirit getdown consternation disheartenment alarm appall daunt discourage dishearten dispirit distress faze frighten intimidate perturb shock startle terrify throw unhinge unsettle upset worry scare

Synonyms by register

Formal

consternation apprehension disquiet trepidation

Informal

shock worry downer bummer

Literary

despair anguish woe

Antonyms

joy delight pleasure happiness excitement cheer elation

Common collocations

  • great dismay
  • utter dismay
  • sense of dismay
  • filled with dismay
  • expressed dismay
  • shock and dismay
  • growing dismay

Word family

noun dismay
verb dismay
adjective dismayed

Usage note

Dismay refers to distress or consternation caused by something unexpected and unpleasant. It is often used to describe a feeling of disappointment or alarm.

Example sentences

  1. The loud noise will dismay the dog.
  2. She felt dismay when she saw her test score.
  3. His failure will dismay his parents.
  4. The unexpected snow will dismay some people.
  5. The broken window will dismay the homeowner.

Quotes

  • There is no greater sorrow than to recall in misery the time when we were happy. - Dante Alighieri
  • Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul - and sings the tunes without the words - and never stops at all. - Emily Dickinson
  • Believe you can and you're halfway there. - Theodore Roosevelt

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