絶望(ぜつぼう)

絶望(ぜつぼう) is a powerful word expressing complete loss of hope—utter despair.

WORD FORMATION:
絶(ぜつ) (to cut off) + 望(ぼう) (hope) = hope cut off

COMMON EXPRESSIONS:

• 絶望(ぜつぼう)する: to despair
• 絶望(ぜつぼう)に陥(おちい)る: to fall into despair
• 絶望(ぜつぼう)の淵(ふち): the depths of despair
• 絶望的(ぜつぼうてき)な状況(じょうきょう): hopeless situation

CONTRAST:

• 絶望(ぜつぼう): despair, hopelessness
• 希望(きぼう): hope (antonym)
• 失望(しつぼう): disappointment (less severe)

USAGE:
絶望(ぜつぼう) is stronger than 失望(しつぼう) (disappointment). It implies a complete, devastating loss of all hope.