Cool MateDisappointed vs Upset
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Disappointed | Upset | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Feeling sad because something was not what you expected. | To make someone sad or angry. |
| CEFR level | B1 | B1 |
| Part of speech | adjective | adjective |
| Usage notes | Use 'disappointed' when expressing feelings of sadness or dissatisfaction about an outcome. Appropriate in most contexts, but can be more formal in written communication. | Use 'upset' to describe feelings of sadness or anger, typically in a context that is personal or emotional. It may not be appropriate for formal writing where stronger language ('angry,' 'distressed') might be preferred. |
Frequently asked questions: Disappointed vs Upset
What's the difference between "Disappointed" and "Upset"?
"Disappointed" means: Feeling sad because something was not what you expected. "Upset" means: To make someone sad or angry.
When should I use "Disappointed" and "Upset"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Disappointed" and "Upset" the same CEFR level?
"Disappointed" is at B1, "Upset" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.