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B2 noun 3 min read

déprimé(e)

Notes & Tips

§ What "déprimé(e)" means

The French word "déprimé(e)" is an adjective that directly translates to "depressed" in English. It describes a state of profound unhappiness, sadness, or despondency. Just like in English, it can refer to a temporary feeling or a more serious, long-term condition. It's a common word you'll encounter when discussing emotions, mental well-being, or even simply a bad mood.

DEFINITION
Depressed; in a state of unhappiness and despondency.

The "(e)" at the end of "déprimé(e)" indicates that the adjective changes its ending to agree with the gender of the noun it modifies. If you're describing a masculine person or thing, you use "déprimé". If it's feminine, you use "déprimée".

§ When to use "déprimé(e)"

You'll use "déprimé(e)" in various situations, from casual conversations to more serious discussions about mental health. Here are some common contexts:

  • Describing a person's mood: This is the most frequent use. If someone is feeling down, sad, or generally unhappy, you can say they are "déprimé(e)".
  • Talking about a temporary state: It can refer to a short-term feeling, like being sad after a bad day or a disappointment.
  • Referring to clinical depression: In a more serious context, it can describe someone suffering from clinical depression.
  • Figuratively describing something: Sometimes, though less commonly, you might hear it used to describe a place or atmosphere that feels gloomy or sad.

§ Examples of "déprimé(e)" in action

Let's look at some examples to help you understand how "déprimé(e)" is used in sentences:

Il est très déprimé depuis qu'il a perdu son emploi.

Translation hint: He is very depressed since he lost his job.

Elle se sent un peu déprimée à cause du mauvais temps.

Translation hint: She feels a bit depressed because of the bad weather.

Ne sois pas déprimé! Ça va aller mieux.

Translation hint: Don't be depressed! It's going to get better.

La situation économique actuelle rend beaucoup de gens déprimés.

Translation hint: The current economic situation makes many people depressed.

§ Related words and nuances

While "déprimé(e)" is quite direct, it's helpful to know some related words or phrases that convey similar, but slightly different, meanings:

  • Triste: This is the most general word for "sad." It's less intense than "déprimé(e)".
  • Cafard: This noun (un cafard) means "the blues" or a feeling of melancholy. You might hear the expression "avoir le cafard" (to have the blues).
  • Morose: An adjective meaning gloomy, sullen, or downcast. It describes a mood that is consistently low.
  • Abattu(e): This adjective means dejected, down, or disheartened. It suggests being knocked down by something.

Understanding these nuances will allow you to express a wider range of emotions and be more precise in your French communication. "Déprimé(e)" is a strong word, so use it appropriately for the level of sadness or despondency you want to convey.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'déprimé' always carries a negative connotation, referring to a state of sadness or depression. It's not used for mild blues or temporary disappointment.

Not really. While you might say a place makes you déprimé, 'déprimé' itself describes a person's emotional state. For a gloomy place, you'd use words like 'sombre' (dark/gloomy) or 'morne' (dismal).

'Triste' means sad, and it's a general, often temporary emotion. 'Déprimé' is a much stronger and more prolonged state, indicating depression. You can be triste for a day, but 'déprimé' suggests a deeper, more persistent unhappiness.

It depends on the gender of the person you're describing. Use 'déprimé' for a male ('Il est déprimé' - He is depressed) and 'déprimée' for a female ('Elle est déprimée' - She is depressed). The 'e' at the end is for feminine agreement.

No, 'déprimé' specifically describes a living being's emotional state. Objects don't get depressed.

Yes, you might hear 'démoralisé' (demoralized) or 'abattu' (downcast/dejected), but 'déprimé' is the most direct translation for 'depressed' and often implies a more significant state of unhappiness.

'Déprimé' is standard French and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It's not slang.

You would say 'Je me sens déprimé(e)' (I feel depressed). Remember to use 'déprimé' if you're male and 'déprimée' if you're female.

Yes, 'un déprimé' (a depressed man) or 'une déprimée' (a depressed woman) can be used as nouns to refer to a person suffering from depression. For example: 'Il est en contact avec les déprimés' (He is in contact with depressed people).

A common mistake is using it for mild sadness, like saying 'Je suis déprimé' when you just mean 'I'm a bit sad.' Remember, 'déprimé' implies a more serious and sustained state of depression, not just a passing feeling of sadness.

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