289 Another Word for Discouraging? - Discouraging Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say discouraging differently? Here are other words for discouraging and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.

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Meaning of discouraging

The primary meaning of the word "discouraging" is to cause someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm.

Etymology of discouraging

The word "discouraging" originates from the Old French word "descoragier," which means "to dishearten" or "to deprive of courage"
The word has been in use since the 15th century, initially with the meaning "to dishearten" or "to deprive of courage," and later evolving to include the sense of "to cause someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm"

Synonyms

disappointing disheartening depressing discouraging dispiriting demoralizing demotivating unencouraging unmotivating off-putting uninviting uninspiring bleak gloomy dismal pessimistic negative unfavorable adverse unpropitious inauspicious hopeless despairing despondent dejecting dismaying distressing upsetting unsettling unnerving disconcerting demobilizing paralyzing stifling suppressing repressing silencing muffling damping quelling quashing crushing devastating heartbreaking spiritless spineless listless lethargic languid lackluster vapid hollow unenthusiastic apathetic indifferent uninterested unconcerned detached aloof unresponsive impassive inert inactive dormant stagnant moribund dying fading waning declining deteriorating worsening sinking foundering losing failing faltering flagging slowing slackening weakening enfeebling debilitating incapacitating disabling crippling hamstringing handicapping impeding hindering obstructing blocking thwarting frustrating disappointing disillusioning

Definitions

Causing someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm
Making someone less likely to do something or continue trying
Having a negative or unfavorable effect on someone's mood or attitude

Usage Examples

The discouraging news about the company's financial situation made it difficult for employees to stay motivated
The long and difficult journey was discouraging, but the hikers persevered and eventually reached their destination
The discouraging feedback from the teacher made the student question their ability to succeed in the class

Antonyms

encouraging uplifting inspiring motivating heartening invigorating energizing stimulating exciting exhilarating thrilling pleasing satisfying gratifying rewarding reassuring comforting reassuring supportive helpful positive favorable advantageous auspicious promising hopeful optimistic confident enthusiastic eager keen interested concerned engaged responsive active dynamic vibrant lively energetic vigorous robust resilient buoyant cheerful sunny bright radiant beaming glowing triumphant victorious successful thriving flourishing blooming booming soaring rising ascending advancing progressing improving enhancing promoting fostering nurturing cultivating developing growing strengthening empowering enabling capacitating