dismal

Much worse or smaller than expected or needed.

• Sales have been dismal this month.
• The team improved after a dismal performance.
• Attendance was dismal despite the cheap tickets.

Similar words: poor, inadequate, disappointing

Opposites: excellent

Common phrases: dismal performance, dismal results, dismal sales

So bad that it causes serious failure or disaster.

• The plan was a dismal failure.
• Their campaign ended in a dismal defeat.
• The rescue attempt had a dismal outcome.

Similar words: disastrous, calamitous

Opposites: successful

Common phrases: dismal failure, dismal defeat, dismal outcome

Dark, dull, or unpleasant in a way that makes you feel sad or without hope.

• It was a dismal day.
• The dismal weather kept us indoors.
• They faced the dismal prospect of another winter without heating.

Similar words: gloomy, bleak, dreary

Opposites: cheerful, bright

Common phrases: dismal weather, dismal day, dismal prospect, dismal thoughts