a feeling of dissatisfaction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a feeling of dissatisfaction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an emotional state or reaction to a situation that is not meeting expectations or desires. Example: "After receiving the feedback on her project, she was left with a feeling of dissatisfaction that lingered throughout the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"There is anger, a feeling of dissatisfaction in work, with the salaries, in life".

The New York Times

"It's a feeling of dissatisfaction with things as they are," Hell explained.

The New Yorker

A feeling of dissatisfaction also developed toward the existing governmental and missionary institutions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Join IOP Resident Fellow Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-FL) for a conversation with Jim McLaughlin, one of the foremost Republican pollsters in the country, to discuss the attitudes of young Americans towards today's parties and a feeling of dissatisfaction despite economic growth.

Harvard University

"You can feel stress, insomnia, self-doubt, cynicism, and as though you're in a void, like, 'How can I possibly succeed when there are not enough resources left for me?' There will be emotional exhaustion, a feeling of dissatisfaction, inadequacy, and also anger, and maybe physical pain that could take the form of Fibromyalgia or constant feelings of 'unwellness'," she says.

BBC

It means there's a feeling of dissatisfaction, unhappiness even, with your life as it is currently.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Mary Bacon (so fine in a recent Off Broadway staging of Tennessee Williams's "Eccentricities of a Nightingale") gives a richly layered performance as the central character, Kitty, whose encounter with a mildly sozzled businessman at a convention awakens a feeling of nagging dissatisfaction buried beneath diurnal distractions.

The New York Times

As Mr. Wagner, who at the time of making the film was teaching film to the Crips and the Bloods in South Central Los Angeles, put it: "I was more than ready to make a film about waking up to a feeling of profound dissatisfaction with one's life".

The New York Times

When turning the last page, however, the reader is left with a feeling of slight dissatisfaction: the book does not really "fit".

Huffington Post

"Ukip has been elected based on a national surge, media interest and a general feeling of dissatisfaction with the status quo.

The Guardian

Perhaps that's deliberate – since life rarely comes together neatly either – but still it leaves a slight feeling of dissatisfaction.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a feeling of dissatisfaction", be specific about the cause of the feeling to provide clarity and impact. For example, "a feeling of dissatisfaction with the current leadership" is more informative than simply "a feeling of dissatisfaction".

Common error

Avoid using "a feeling of dissatisfaction" without specifying what is causing the dissatisfaction. Vague statements can leave the reader confused and lessen the impact of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a feeling of dissatisfaction" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a subjective emotional state, as evidenced by Ludwig. It denotes an awareness of unmet expectations or a lack of fulfillment.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a feeling of dissatisfaction" is a valid and frequently used phrase to express a negative emotional state arising from unmet expectations or a lack of fulfillment. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While the phrase itself maintains a neutral register, clarity is enhanced by specifying the source or cause of the dissatisfaction. When aiming for variety, alternatives such as "a sense of discontent" or "a state of displeasure" can provide subtle nuances. Recognizing its function, purpose, and optimal usage, as reinforced by Ludwig's analysis, empowers effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sense of discontent

Focuses on a general lack of satisfaction or happiness.

a state of displeasure

Highlights the negative emotional response to something.

a sentiment of frustration

Emphasizes the feeling of being blocked or thwarted.

a mood of unhappiness

Indicates a general lack of joy or well-being.

a pang of disappointment

Suggests a sudden, sharp feeling of being let down.

a trace of resentment

Implies a lingering feeling of bitterness or indignation.

a hint of vexation

Conveys a slight feeling of annoyance or irritation.

a wave of disillusionment

Describes a loss of faith or trust in something.

a shade of bitterness

Suggests a subtle but noticeable feeling of acrimony.

a touch of unease

Implies a slight feeling of anxiety or discomfort.

FAQs

How can I express "a feeling of dissatisfaction" in simpler terms?

You can use phrases like "discontent", "displeasure", or "frustration" to convey a similar meaning. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a feeling of dissatisfaction" or "a sense of dissatisfaction"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey. "A sense of "dissatisfaction"" might imply a more intuitive or general feeling, while "a feeling of dissatisfaction" can be more directly tied to a specific event or situation.

What are some formal alternatives to "a feeling of dissatisfaction"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a state of displeasure", "a sentiment of frustration", or "a mood of "unhappiness"" to maintain a professional tone.

How does "a feeling of dissatisfaction" differ from "a feeling of disappointment"?

"A feeling of "dissatisfaction"" implies a lack of fulfillment or contentment with a situation or outcome, while "a feeling of disappointment" specifically suggests that one's expectations were not met. Dissatisfaction is broader and can stem from various sources, whereas disappointment is tied to unmet hopes.