Sorrow sadness

Tearful

Also known as teary, weepy

Strength 2 of 4

Close to tears, with feeling risen so near the surface that a kind word or a small thing could set them falling.

In the body

  • Eyes welling and stinging
  • A lump in the throat
  • A wobble in the voice
  • Quick, catching breaths

Needs behind it

When these needs aren’t met

Softer and stronger

  1. Down
  2. Pensive
  3. Gloomy
  4. Heavy-hearted
  5. Melancholy
  6. Sad
  7. Tearful
  8. Depressed
  9. Miserable
  10. Sorrowful

Often confused with

Moved

Tearful is close to crying from sadness or strain; moved can bring tears too, from being touched by beauty or kindness.

See also