Synonyms for

Unhappy

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

Definition

Unhappy means feeling sad, disappointed, or not satisfied.

Synonyms & similar words

euphoric infelicitous happy dysphoric distressed sad miserable gloomy dissatisfied downcast depressed unfulfilled discontented displeased melancholy dejected blue woeful despondent crestfallen sorrowful wretched unjoyful glum uncomfortable

Synonyms by register

Formal

discontented dissatisfied dejected melancholy

Informal

down bummed out miserable sad

Literary

woeful forlorn crestfallen

Antonyms

happy joyful content pleased cheerful glad delighted

Common collocations

  • deeply unhappy
  • unhappy about
  • unhappy with
  • unhappy child
  • unhappy marriage
  • unhappy customer
  • unhappy event

Word family

noun unhappiness
adjective unhappy
adverb unhappily

Usage note

Unhappy is a general term for lacking happiness. It can range from mild dissatisfaction to deep sorrow.

Example sentences

  1. She was unhappy with her grade on the test.
  2. He felt unhappy when his best friend moved away.
  3. The rainy weather made her feel unhappy.
  4. The unhappy dog was barking all night long.
  5. She became unhappy when her favorite show was canceled.

Quotes

  • Happiness is not the absence of problems, it's the ability to deal with them. - Steve Maraboli
  • The greatest happiness you can have is knowing that you do not necessarily require happiness. - William Saroyan
  • I'd far rather be happy than right any day. - Douglas Adams

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