Meaning and Usage
The word "憂鬱" (ゆううつ) refers to a state of depression, melancholy, or gloominess. It is often used to describe feelings of sadness or a heavy mood that can be caused by stress, bad weather, or personal worries.
Common Contexts
"憂鬱" is frequently used in everyday conversation to express emotional states, especially when someone feels down or reluctant to do something because of their mood. It can describe both temporary feelings and more persistent emotional states.
Collocations and Patterns
- 憂鬱な気分 (ゆううつなきぶん): a depressed or gloomy mood
- 憂鬱な天気 (ゆううつなてんき): gloomy or depressing weather
- 憂鬱になる: to become depressed or feel gloomy
These collocations highlight how "憂鬱" is often paired with feelings, weather, or states of mind.
Register and Nuance
"憂鬱" is a somewhat formal or literary word compared to casual expressions like "落ち込む" (to feel down). It is appropriate in both spoken and written Japanese, especially in contexts discussing emotions seriously.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "憂鬱" with simple sadness or tiredness. Remember, "憂鬱" implies a deeper, more persistent gloomy feeling rather than momentary sadness or fatigue.