# dashed

/ˈdæʃt/ (US) · /dˈæʃt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dashed
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

feeling very disappointed because your hopes or plans have been destroyed. You use this when something you really wanted to happen fails.

For teachers: characterised by the sudden destruction or frustration of one's hopes, expectations, or dreams. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be' or 'feel'.

## Examples

- His hopes of winning the race were dashed after he fell.
- The team's dreams of reaching the final were dashed by a last-minute goal from the opposition.
- Despite years of meticulous preparation, her aspirations for the promotion were dashed when the company announced a sudden hiring freeze across all departments.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb or appears in the phrase 'dashed hopes'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.