20 Precise Words for Emotions English Misses
A sudden, sharp pang can alter the course of a day. It might be the sting of disapproval, or the deep grief following a loss. Yet, English often relies on simpler terms for such potent experiences. Words like animus, for instance, capture a specific, hostile ill will that goes beyond mere dislike, while foreboding speaks to a premonition of something dire, a feeling far more chilling than simple worry.
Each word on the following list names a distinct emotional shade, offering a more precise way to articulate inner states. Every term can be added to Memorabit, which sends it as a reminder at an unexpected moment. The full list follows.
| Word | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| friendliness | a feeling of liking for another person; enjoyment in their company | Friendliness is a thing of the past.Tatoeba #4980697 by nonong |
| admiration | a feeling of delighted approval and liking | You have my admiration.Tatoeba #11496917 by Nuel |
| animus | a feeling of ill will arousing active hostility | It was all done out of animus.Tatoeba #11832195 by shekitten |
| conceit | feelings of excessive pride | Her conceit about her beauty annoyed many people.Tatoeba #264779 by AlanF_US |
| yearning | prolonged unfulfilled desire or need | I'm yearning to see you...Tatoeba #9726217 by mialiesperantistas |
| forgiveness | compassionate feelings that support a willingness to forgive | I ask your forgiveness.Tatoeba #2291888 by CK |
| displeasure | the feeling of being displeased or annoyed or dissatisfied with someone or something | A frown may express anger or displeasure.Tatoeba #53502 by CK |
| fulfillment | a feeling of satisfaction at having achieved your desires | She seeks fulfillment in her work.Tatoeba #12776079 by Igider |
| contentment | happiness with one's situation in life | My contentment was short-lived.Tatoeba #11531366 by Nuel |
| foreboding | a feeling of evil to come | A foreboding thundercloud formed in the sky.Tatoeba #12699097 by canonrebel |
| hatred | the emotion of intense dislike; a feeling of dislike so strong that it demands action | Hatred is our enemy.Tatoeba #279578 by CM |
| grief | intense sorrow caused by loss of a loved one (especially by death) | Grief drove her mad.Tatoeba #317763 by CM |
| enchantment | a feeling of great liking for something wonderful and unusual | Study lends a kind of enchantment to all our surroundings.Tatoeba #3073218 by carlosalberto |
| pang | a sudden sharp feeling | It gives me a pang in my heart to see him sitting alone.Tatoeba #11709714 by Nuel |
| hopelessness | the despair you feel when you have abandoned hope of comfort or success | Nothing is more nefarious than hopelessness.Tatoeba #10018500 by Nylez |
| caprice | a sudden desire | It was simply caprice that led them to shoplift.Tatoeba #10545050 by Auride |
| disapproval | a feeling of disliking something or what someone is doing | I feel your disapproval.Tatoeba #12305506 by CK |
| zest | vigorous and enthusiastic enjoyment | Wit gives zest to conversation.Tatoeba #20465 by fishda |
| trepidation | a feeling of alarm or dread | Do I hear a note of trepidation in your voice?Tatoeba #9032589 by AlanF_US |
| loathing | hate coupled with disgust | The loathing is my shepherd.Tatoeba #12248464 by Miktsoanit |