disillusionment
/,disi'lu:ʤnmənt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The state of being freed from false beliefs or illusions: The feeling of disappointment that arises when one discovers that something is not as good, true, or admirable as one previously believed.
- The process of causing this feeling: The act of disenchanting someone or the fact of being disenchanted.
Usage
- Disillusionment is an uncountable noun. It describes a general feeling or state.
- It is often followed by the preposition "with" to indicate the source of the disappointment (e.g., disillusionment politics).
- It can also be used with "about" or "over" (e.g., disillusionment the future).
Examples
- The constant corruption scandals led to widespread public disillusionment with the government.
- After years of unfulfilled promises, she felt a deep sense of disillusionment.
- His disillusionment with the corporate world made him quit his job and travel.
Advanced Usage
- "A sense/feeling of disillusionment": A common collocation emphasizing the emotional experience.
- He spoke with a palpable sense of disillusionment about his career.
- "Growing/Creeping disillusionment": Used to describe disillusionment that develops gradually over time.
- There is a growing disillusionment among voters with the entire political class.
Variants and Related Words
- Disillusion (verb): To cause someone to realize that a belief or ideal is false.
- The harsh realities of war disillusioned the young soldier.
- Disillusioned (adjective): Having lost one's ideals or beliefs; disappointed.
- She became deeply disillusioned with the organization's leadership.
Synonyms
- Disenchantment: A feeling of disappointment about someone or something previously respected or admired.
- Disappointment: Sadness or displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations.
- Cynicism: An inclination to believe that people are motivated purely by self-interest; skepticism.
Antonyms
- Enchantment: A feeling of great pleasure or delight.
- Idealism: The practice of forming or pursuing ideals, especially unrealistically.
Idioms and Common Phrases
- "A rude awakening": While not a direct synonym, this idiom describes a sudden and unpleasant realization that shatters one's illusions, often leading to disillusionment.
- His first month on the job was a rude awakening to the realities of the industry.
Noun
- freeing from false belief or illusions