unhappy

word · lemma: happy

/ənˈhæpi/
uhn-HA-pee
/ʌnhˈæpi/
uhn-HA-pee

Definition

Not happy; feeling sad, disappointed, or not satisfied. It can describe a person's emotions or dissatisfaction with a situation or result.

Usage & Nuances

Common in everyday English. Often used with 'with' ('unhappy with the service') or 'about' ('unhappy about the decision'). Stronger and more general than 'sad' in some contexts because it can mean emotional sadness or dissatisfaction, not only feeling low.

Example Sentences

She looks unhappy today.

basic

He was unhappy with his test score.

basic

I'm unhappy about how they handled the problem.

natural

If you're unhappy at work, maybe it's time for a change.

natural

The child became unhappy when the toy broke.

basic

They had been unhappy in their marriage for years.

natural