Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Depression” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
A serious mental illness where a person feels very sad and loses interest in things they usually enjoy.
Meaning of Depression
A mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities.
How to Pronounce Depression
IPA: /dɪˈprɛʃən/ Stress: oOo
Stress the second syllable (pres). The final syllable has a schwa-like sound before the /n/.
4 Synonyms for Depression — Words Similar to Depression
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
melancholy
/ˈmelənkɑːli/A sad and thoughtful feeling, often mixed with quiet understanding or a sense of loss.
Example: She gazed out the window with a melancholy expression, lost in memories.
Smart Synonyms for Depression — When to Use Each
despondency
for a deep emotional state without clinical diagnosis
melancholy
when describing a poetic or prolonged sadness
Antonyms of Depression — Opposite Words
How to Use Depression and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- After losing his job, he struggled with depression for several months. B2
- Clinical depression affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions daily. B2
- Talking to a therapist helped her manage her depression. B2
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Depression
What is another word for "depression"?
Common synonyms for "depression" include: despondency, sadness, melancholy, low mood.
What can I say instead of "depression"?
Try one of these alternatives: despondency, sadness, melancholy, low mood. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "depression" formal or informal?
"depression" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "depression" instead of "despondency"?
Use "depression" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "despondency" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.
What are the antonyms of "depression"?
Words with the opposite meaning of "depression" include: joy, happiness.