jaded

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "jaded" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe someone who is feeling or showing fatigue, boredom, or cynicism as a result of having had too much of something. For example: "After years of attending the same corporate events, the CEO was feeling jaded and uninterested."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The only time I felt "older" was on the backpacker bus trail from Koh Tao to Khao Sok, where some studiously jaded youngsters viewed my cheery optimism with the contempt it obviously deserved.

The Guardian - Travel

Childish Gambino is about facing the fact that none of us really get jaded or grow a thicker skin – we just shy away from what originally hurt us.

The Guardian - Music

Philippoussis, though, was probably jaded, and that almost certainly affected his serve and court coverage.

The Guardian - Sport

The hipster event of the summer, Night + Day London follows shows in Berlin and Lisbon, which is to say places you might go on holiday were you so jaded as to want a respite from the non-stop japes on offer in your favoured east London quarter-mile.

The Guardian - Music

Many of my colleagues are already depressingly jaded.

The Guardian

Tim Jonze, music editor Even jaded hacks watching on Centre Court when Andy Murray defeated Novak Djokovic and 77 years of history to win the men's singles title at Wimbledon will long remember the primal scream of joy and disbelief he unleashed in their direction when the Serbian found the net to hand him victory.

The Guardian

Perhaps she also meant that this was the way books now should be written; that we are all tired of modernism and post-modernism, and Virginia Woolf looks jaded and out of date next to Jane Austen.

The Guardian - Books

This is not a generation so jaded that it can never be bothered to protest.

The Economist

They have caused social problems here at home and jaded the British public's attitude towards involvement in future conflicts".10.10

The Economist

In UP he is seen as modest and well-intentioned, unlike the older lot, who seem jaded and grasping.

The Economist

After all, as a famously jaded French philosopher said, at some level everybody fails in life.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "jaded", consider the specific reason for the lack of enthusiasm. Is it due to overexposure, disappointment, or general cynicism? Choosing synonyms can provide a more nuanced description.

Common error

Don't assume that someone is "jaded" simply because they are unhappy. The term implies a specific cause: weariness or cynicism stemming from repeated negative experiences. Ensure this context is present.

Linguistic Context

The word "jaded" primarily functions as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe someone who has become cynical, bored, or apathetic, often due to overexposure or negative experiences. Ludwig shows examples like "jaded voters" and "jaded millionaires".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "jaded" is a common and correct adjective used to describe a state of weariness and cynicism, often stemming from overexposure or negative experiences. As Ludwig confirms, the term is frequently encountered in journalistic and professional contexts. When using "jaded", consider whether a more precise synonym such as "disillusioned" or "cynical" might be more appropriate. Be mindful of implying that someone is "jaded" without sufficient context, as it suggests a prolonged exposure or a history of negative experiences rather than a singular event. Understanding the various shades of meaning can help you choose the most effective word for your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disillusioned

Suggests a loss of faith or idealism, often after a disappointing experience.

cynical

Implies a distrust of others' motives and a general pessimism about life.

weary

Focuses on the feeling of being tired or exhausted, either physically or mentally.

blasé

Indicates a lack of interest or excitement, often due to having experienced something many times.

disenchanted

Similar to disillusioned, but perhaps with a stronger sense of having been charmed initially.

world-weary

Emphasizes a feeling of being tired of the world and its problems.

unenthusiastic

Simply lacking enthusiasm or excitement.

burned out

Suggests a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress.

apathetic

Showing or feeling a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

indifferent

Having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned.

FAQs

How can I use "jaded" in a sentence?

You can use "jaded" to describe someone who is bored or lacking enthusiasm, typically after having been overexposed to something. For example, "After years in the industry, he had become "jaded" and cynical".

What are some synonyms for "jaded"?

Alternatives to "jaded" include "disillusioned", "cynical", "weary", and "blasé". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "jaded" after just one bad experience?

While a single bad experience can be disillusioning, "jaded" typically implies a weariness or cynicism that develops over time from repeated or prolonged exposure. Consider using "disappointed" or "discouraged" instead.

What's the difference between "jaded" and "tired"?

"Tired" primarily refers to physical or mental exhaustion. "Jaded" implies a deeper sense of weariness and disillusionment resulting from negative experiences or overexposure. Someone can be "tired" without being "jaded", and vice versa.