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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