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CEFR C2 — Proficiency

Melancholy

Definition

(literary/formal) A feeling of deep sadness or sorrow, often without a clear cause or a sense of hopelessness. Typically characterized by introspection, pensiveness, and a tendency to focus on the negative aspects of life. Can also refer to a thoughtful and contemplative mood, often associated with creativity or artistic expression.

Example Sentences

1The poet's melancholy verse captured the somber mood of the era, reflecting the widespread disillusionment with societal norms.
2Is it possible to cultivate a melancholy temperament as a means of accessing deeper levels of creativity and emotional insight?
3The artist's use of muted colors and haunting melodies evoked a sense of melancholy in the viewer, inviting them to contemplate the transience of human experience.
4Some researchers argue that a melancholy disposition can be a catalyst for philosophical inquiry, driving individuals to question the fundamental nature of reality.
5There is a long tradition of associating melancholy with genius, from the Romantic poets to modern-day artists and writers who have tapped into the creative potential of their own melancholic tendencies.

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