dismal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The prospects for negotiations reopening the strait and ending the war are dismal, and there is no guarantee that force can accomplish what diplomacy cannot.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

The debate around England's dismal Ashes defeat continued on Monday when it was confirmed coach Brendon McCullum, director of cricket Rob Key and Test captain Ben Stokes were to remain in their posts.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

U.S. equity futures were pointing toward another dismal open — and then things abruptly turned around.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

If economics can be called the dismal science, I’d argue that eugenics might be called the narcissistic one.

From Slate • Mar. 19, 2026

“But I have not always had them. I know what I speak of, boy, and though you may think me a dismal old crow, you’ll do well to heed my cawing.”

From "The Golden Goblet" by Eloise Jarvis McGraw