Words / B1

dis-uh-POYNT-ing/ˌdɪsəˈpɔɪntɪŋ/

Disappointing describes a thing that is worse than hoped: a disappointing result; disappointing turnout. Disappointed describes the person. Poor is everyday. Do not call a tragedy merely disappointing — that is too weak. Elections: disappointing turnout on a wet day.

Meaning

Worse than you hoped; causing disappointment.

Examples

• “Turnout was disappointing after a wet polling day.”
• “A disappointing mock is useful if the feedback is specific.”

Good to know

a disappointing result / performance / turnout. Person: disappointed. Everyday: poor. Too weak for a disaster. Mocks: disappointing but useful.

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