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Triste vs. infelice

Word practice demo
The Italian words triste and infelice both convey sadness, but they have subtle differences in usage and intensity.

Triste

A2
Triste generally refers to a temporary state of sadness or melancholy. It's often used to describe a mood or feeling that is transient.
Sono triste perché il mio cane è malato.
(I'm sad because my dog is sick.)
Il film aveva un finale triste.
(The movie had a sad ending.)
La musica triste mi fa pensare al passato.
(Sad music makes me think about the past.)

Infelice

B1
Infelice implies a deeper, more persistent state of unhappiness or dissatisfaction. It often describes a general state of being or a long-term condition.
Si sente infelice nel suo lavoro da anni.
(He has been unhappy in his job for years.)
Il loro matrimonio infelice è finito con il divorzio.
(Their unhappy marriage ended in divorce.)
Ha fatto una scelta infelice quando ha lasciato l'università.
(He made an unfortunate choice when he left university.)

Summary

While triste typically describes a temporary feeling of sadness, infelice often indicates a more profound or long-lasting state of unhappiness. Triste is used for specific situations or moments, whereas infelice can describe overall life satisfaction or enduring conditions.