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distraught

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "distraught": Distraught describes a state of extreme mental agitation, deep sorrow, or emotional distress. Imagin

What does "distraught" mean?

Distraught describes a state of extreme mental agitation, deep sorrow, or emotional distress. Imagine someone who is so overwhelmed by bad news or a traumatic event that they have lost their ability to think clearly or calm themselves down; they are essentially "torn apart" by their feelings. This word is stronger than just "upset" or "sad." It is typically reserved for high-stakes situations involving grief, panic, or intense anxiety. Because it carries a heavy emotional weight, it is often used in news reports, formal descriptions of accidents, or serious personal narratives rather than in casual, everyday conversation.

"distraught" in conversation

Checking on a friend after bad news

I just heard the news about the accident. How are you holding up?

I just heard the news about the accident. How are you holding up?

I'm completely distraught. I still can't believe it's real.

I'm completely distraught. I still can't believe it's real.

Used here to emphasize the intensity of shock and grief.

A teacher talking to a parent

When your daughter lost her locket, she was absolutely distraught.

When your daughter lost her locket, she was absolutely distraught.

Oh no, that was a gift from her grandmother. I'll go find her.

Oh no, that was a gift from her grandmother. I'll go find her.

Demonstrates that the word can apply to children experiencing significant distress over a loss.

"distraught" in a sentence

  1. She was distraught after hearing the bad news.

    She was distraught after hearing the bad news.

  2. The parents were distraught when they realized their child was missing in the crowd.

    The parents were distraught when they realized their child was missing in the crowd.

  3. He wandered the streets in a distraught state, unable to process the sudden collapse of his business.

    He wandered the streets in a distraught state, unable to process the sudden collapse of his business.

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