saddened
Saddened (adjective) means Made unhappy by something that has happened, especially bad news. Example: “We were deeply saddened to hear of his death.”
How to use saddened
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMade unhappy by something that happened.
Somewhat formal; the standard register of condolences and official statements.
Saddened is normally followed by to hear, to learn or by: saddened by the news, saddened to hear of your loss.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We were deeply _____ to hear of his death.
Etymology
From sadden, formed from sad plus the verb-making suffix -en; sad comes from Old English saed "sated, weary".
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for saddened
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between saddened and sad?
Sad describes a state, whatever its cause. Saddened points to a cause: something happened and it made you sad. That is why announcements say "we were saddened to learn" rather than "we were sad to learn".
Is "deeply saddened" too formal for a condolence message?
It is formal, and it is the standard wording for public statements and company announcements. In a private message to a close friend, plainer wording such as "I'm so sorry" usually reads as warmer and more genuine.
What is the meaning of saddened?
"saddened" (adjective) means made unhappy by something that has happened, especially bad news.
What is another word for saddened?
Other words for "saddened" include upset, distressed, sorrowful, grieved, dismayed.