C2adjective 5K

Dismal

🇬🇧 UK //ˈdɪzməl// 🇺🇸 US //ˈdɪzməl//

Meaning of Dismal

Causing a mood of gloom or depression; very bad.

In simple words: Very bad or sad.

Dismal in a sentence

• The weather was dismal, with rain pouring down all day.
• She described her performance in the play as dismal and uninspiring.
• His dismal attitude made it hard for others to be positive.
• The team's dismal record this season left fans feeling disappointed.
• In the dismal light of the room, everything looked gray and lifeless.

How to use Dismal

Used to describe situations, environments, or moods that are bleak or gloomy. Appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

attributive + subject

Memory hint

Think of 'dismal' as 'dismal' = 'dismal thoughts'. Imagine a gloomy day.

Related words

Collocations with Dismal

• dismal conditions
• dismal performance
• dismal failure

Synonyms for Dismal

• gloomy
• dreary
• bleak
• depressing
• dark

Opposites of Dismal

• bright
• cheerful
• pleasant

Common mistakes with Dismal

• Confused with 'dismal' vs 'gloomy'
• Used inappropriately with positive subjects (e.g., 'a dismal success')
• Omitting 'dismal' when describing poor performance

Frequently asked questions about Dismal

What does Dismal mean?

Very bad or sad.

What is the definition of Dismal?

Causing a mood of gloom or depression; very bad.

How do you use Dismal in a sentence?

The weather was dismal, with rain pouring down all day.

Can you give another example of Dismal?

She described her performance in the play as dismal and uninspiring.

What are synonyms for Dismal?

Common alternatives include gloomy, dreary, bleak, depressing, dark.

What is the opposite of Dismal?

Opposite meanings include bright, cheerful, pleasant.

What words go with Dismal?

It commonly pairs with dismal conditions, dismal performance, dismal failure.

What are common mistakes when using Dismal?

Confused with 'dismal' vs 'gloomy' Used inappropriately with positive subjects (e.g., 'a dismal success') Omitting 'dismal' when describing poor performance

How do you pronounce Dismal?

US: //ˈdɪzməl//, UK: //ˈdɪzməl//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Dismal?

Used to describe situations, environments, or moods that are bleak or gloomy. Appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.

What CEFR level is Dismal?

"Dismal" is at C2 level on the CEFR scale.