English Reference
adjective

disappointed

adj.
US /ˌdɪsəˈpɔɪnɪd/ UK /dˌɪsɐpˈɔɪntɪd/ dis·ap·point·ed

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    feeling sad or unhappy because something was not as good as you hoped.

    experiencing a sense of sadness or dissatisfaction arising from the failure of expectations or hopes to materialise.

    Simple

    He was disappointed with his exam results because he had studied very hard.

    In context

    The fans were deeply disappointed by the team's performance, especially after the high expectations set during the pre-season matches.

    Usage

    Commonly followed by the prepositions 'with', 'by', 'at', or 'in'.

    Pitfall
    I am disappointed of the results. I am disappointed with the results.

    Use 'with' or 'by' to describe the cause of the feeling, or 'in' when referring to a person who let you down.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing through your voice or face that you are unhappy about a result.

    expressing or indicating a state of disappointment through outward appearance, tone, or manner.

    Simple

    She gave a disappointed sigh when she saw that the shop was closed.

    In context

    The manager cast a disappointed look toward the interns after they failed to meet the project deadline for the second time.

    Usage

    Typically used to modify nouns related to expression, such as 'look', 'sigh', 'tone', or 'voice'.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated