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adj Uncommon

discouraging

dihs-KUHR-ih-jihng

Discouraging (adj) means making someone feel less confident or hopeful. Example: “The test results were discouraging, but the doctor said not to lose hope.”

adj
1
Making someone feel less confident or hopeful.
"The test results were discouraging, but the doctor said not to lose hope."

How to use discouraging

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething that lowers your confidence or hope.

Common pairings
discouraging news far from discouraging

Word forms

discouragings plural

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The test results were _____, but the doctor said not to lose hope.

Rhymes for discouraging

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Frequently asked questions

What does “discouraging” mean?

The word “discouraging” means making someone feel less confident or hopeful. In plain terms, something that lowers your confidence or hope.

How do you pronounce “discouraging”?

“Discouraging” is pronounced dihs-KUHR-ih-jihng (/dɪsˈkɝ.ɪ.d͡ʒɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “discouraging” in a sentence?

Here is “discouraging” used in a sentence: “The test results were discouraging, but the doctor said not to lose hope.”

What part of speech is “discouraging”?

“Discouraging” is an adjective.

Is “discouraging” a common word?

“Discouraging” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial