looking dejected

USAGE SUMMARY

"looking dejected" is a correct and usable phrase in written English, and it is usually used to describe someone's demeanor.
For example, "The student entered the exam room looking dejected, as if he already knew he wouldn't pass."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Prosecutors, looking dejected, finally postponed Fehr's testimony.

The New York Times - Sports

Then, abruptly, Wiles exited, looking dejected.

The New Yorker

Later, Mr. Drigant's grandson walked by, looking dejected.

The New York Times

A few minutes later, Sellers said, her boy returned looking dejected.

The Guardian - Books

A "Speed Limit 20" sign, and near it is a drawing of a boy standing next to his race car, looking dejected.

The New Yorker

Bai also collected a second, as the Bulls completed the most convincing of their three world club titles to leave the Tigers looking dejected.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

They look dejected and demoralised.

Independent

He got back on, but looked dejected.

The New York Times

He looked dejected and mad at himself".

The New York Times

Stuart looks dejected, his fingers still poised over the buttons.

The Guardian - Tech

Richards, 33, looked dejected as he spoke briefly with reporters afterward.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking dejected" to vividly describe a character's emotional state in narrative writing. It provides a clear visual cue to the reader, enhancing the emotional impact of the scene.

Common error

Avoid using "looking dejected" to describe an internal feeling; it specifically refers to an outward appearance. Instead, use phrases like "feeling dejected" or "experiencing dejection" to express internal emotions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking dejected" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, describing the appearance or demeanor of someone who is sad or disappointed. Examples from Ludwig show it being used to depict the emotional state of people in various situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looking dejected" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase to describe someone's sad or disappointed appearance. As Ludwig AI pointed out, this phrase is suitable for various contexts but is most prevalent in news and media. When writing, use "looking dejected" to provide vivid descriptions of a character's emotional state, but avoid misinterpreting it as an internal feeling. Instead, remember that it specifically refers to an outward appearance. Alternatives such as "appearing despondent" or "seeming disheartened" can offer subtle nuances to your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appearing despondent

Focuses on the outward manifestation of despondency.

seeming disheartened

Emphasizes a loss of spirit or enthusiasm.

looking crestfallen

Highlights the facial expression of disappointment.

appearing gloomy

Indicates a general sense of sadness in appearance.

seeming downcast

Focuses on a lowered gaze and posture due to sadness.

looking dispirited

Emphasizes a lack of energy or motivation.

seeming melancholic

Implies a deeper, more prolonged sadness.

appearing sorrowful

Directly conveys an expression of sorrow.

looking woebegone

Suggests a combination of sadness and helplessness.

seeming glum

Indicates a sullen or morose appearance.

FAQs

How can I use "looking dejected" in a sentence?

"Looking dejected" is used to describe someone's appearance. For example, "After losing the game, the team was "looking dejected"."

What are some synonyms for "looking dejected"?

Alternatives include "appearing despondent", "seeming disheartened", or "looking crestfallen", each conveying a slightly different nuance of sadness.

Is it correct to say someone "feels looking dejected"?

No, it is incorrect. "Looking dejected" describes outward appearance, while feelings are internal. You should say "feeling dejected" instead.

What's the difference between "looking dejected" and "feeling dejected"?

"Looking dejected" describes how someone appears to others, indicating sadness or disappointment through their expression or demeanor. "Feeling dejected" describes the internal emotional state of sadness or disappointment. In short, appearance vs feeling.