got discouraged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "got discouraged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a feeling of loss of confidence or enthusiasm, often due to a setback or challenge. Example: "After receiving the negative feedback on her project, she got discouraged and considered giving up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Many got discouraged and stopped complaining.

The New York Times

During the depression, some of the farmers got discouraged and quit.

The New Yorker

"They had some stupid comments and I got discouraged, like an idiot," she said.

The New Yorker

"I was really uncoordinated when I was younger and I got discouraged," Del Piero said.

The New York Times - Sports

I never got discouraged, though, because I knew that with practice, I'd get better at it.

The New York Times

"I don't know whether Michael got discouraged, but I know I got discouraged for him," said Mark Hopkins, one of the owners of Da Hoss.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Get discouraged.

Harvard Business Review

Stringer seldom gets discouraged.

The New York Times - Sports

"Did I get discouraged sometimes?

The New York Times - Sports

So don't get discouraged..

The New Yorker

But don't get discouraged.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "got discouraged", ensure the context clearly indicates the cause of the discouragement to provide a complete understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid simply stating someone "got discouraged" without explaining what led to that feeling. Providing context enhances clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got discouraged" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as the main verb in a sentence or clause to describe a state of losing enthusiasm or motivation. Ludwig provides examples where it indicates a reaction to setbacks or challenges.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

21%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Science

12%

Reference

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "got discouraged" is a common verb phrase used to describe a loss of motivation or confidence, often in response to setbacks. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context about the cause of discouragement. Alternatives like ""became disheartened"" or ""lost heart"" can offer nuanced shades of meaning. Providing context is crucial for clarity. Therefore, using "got discouraged" precisely ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

became disheartened

Emphasizes a loss of spirit or enthusiasm, often due to disappointment.

lost heart

Suggests a significant drop in courage or enthusiasm.

felt demoralized

Highlights a reduction in morale or confidence, often in a group setting.

became disillusioned

Implies a loss of faith or trust in something previously valued.

gave up hope

Indicates a complete abandonment of optimism or expectation.

lost motivation

Focuses on the reduction or absence of the drive to act or achieve.

felt defeated

Highlights a sense of being overcome or conquered by a challenge.

lost enthusiasm

Emphasizes a decrease in excitement or eagerness.

became pessimistic

Shifts to a generally negative outlook or expectation of outcomes.

felt hopeless

Indicates a complete lack of positive expectation or confidence in the future.

FAQs

How can I use "got discouraged" in a sentence?

You can use "got discouraged" to describe a situation where someone lost motivation or confidence due to a setback. For example, "After receiving the rejection letter, she "got discouraged" and almost gave up on her dream".

What are some alternatives to "got discouraged"?

Alternatives include "became disheartened", "lost heart", or "felt demoralized", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "got discouraged" or "became discouraged"?

Both "got discouraged" and "became discouraged" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice often depends on personal preference and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "got discouraged" and "felt frustrated"?

"Got discouraged" implies a loss of motivation or confidence, while "felt frustrated" indicates a feeling of annoyance or impatience due to being blocked from achieving a goal. They are related but not interchangeable.