Need another word for Discouraging? Use these synonyms of Discouraging from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
disheartening
depressing
demoralizing
upsetting
disappointing
dispiriting
demotivating
uninspiring
unencouraging
hopeless
bleak
gloomy
dismal
pessimistic
negative
unfavorable
unpropitious
discouragingly
dissuading
deterring
hindering
obstructing
thwarting
frustrating
dismaying
distressing
alarming
perturbing
unsettling
unnerving
intimidating
Meaning of Discouraging
The primary meaning of the word "Discouraging" is to make someone less confident or enthusiastic.
Definitions
- Causing someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm
- * Making someone less likely to do something
- * Having a negative or unfavorable effect on someone's mood or attitude
Etymology of Discouraging
The word "Discouraging" originates from the Old French word "descurager", which is a combination of "des-" (meaning "away from" or "opposite of") and "curage" (meaning "courage" or "heart")
The word has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe something that reduces or destroys courage or enthusiasm
Example Uses
- The discouraging news about the job market made it harder for her to stay motivated
- * The discouraging weather forecast made us cancel our outdoor plans
- * The teacher's discouraging comments made the student feel less confident about their abilities
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
encouraging
uplifting
inspiring
motivating
heartening
reassuring
comforting
reassuring
supportive
favorable
propitious
optimistic
positive
hopeful
promising
cheering
invigorating
revitalizing
stimulating
energizing