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tristesse

sadness, sorrow

noun trees-TEHS Less Common

Origin: Latin tristitia

Usage Note

Tristesse is a noun derived from the adjective triste (sad). It describes a deep or lingering sadness rather than a momentary bad mood. The philosopher Spinoza's concept of 'tristesse' (opposed to 'joie') is widely referenced in French intellectual culture. Crève-coeur covers a more acute heartbreak.

Examples

"Une grande tristesse l'envahissait."

Natural Translation

A great sadness was overcoming him.

Literal Translation

A great sadness was invading him.

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