What is synonyms for bittersweet

Diversify your English: find synonyms, boost your language confidence

bittersweet

/ˈbɪtərswiːt/

Arousing pleasure tinged with sadness or pain.

Synonyms of bittersweet

Adjective

Strongest matches:

- ambivalent

- mixed emotions

- bittersweetness

Weak matches:

- wistful

- melancholic

- sweet and sour

- nostalgic

Antonyms:

purely joyful, unmixed joy, entirely pleasant, blissful, unambiguously happy, completely sweet, unmitigated joy

Usage examples:

1. Winning the championship was a bittersweet moment for Alex, as he wished his late father could have been there to see it.

2. The bittersweet chocolate added a complex, slightly tangy flavor to the cake, making it an instant hit among the guests.

3. Saying goodbye to her colleagues was a bittersweet experience for Maya, filled with the sadness of parting and the excitement of starting a new adventure abroad.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a simpler synonym for 'bittersweet' that conveys a mix of happiness and sadness?

A simpler synonym that captures the essence of both happiness and sadness is 'mixed-emotions.' This term directly reflects the coexistence of positive and negative feelings.

Is there a formal synonym for 'bittersweet' that can be used in academic writing?

Yes, 'ambivalent' is a more formal synonym that suits academic contexts. It denotes having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone.

What synonym for 'bittersweet' emphasizes the aspect of nostalgia?

'Nostalgic' itself can be considered a synonym when the context involves a wistful or sentimental yearning for the happiness felt in a former place, time, or situation, mixed with sadness for its loss.

Can 'poignant' be used as a synonym for 'bittersweet'?

'Poignant' can indeed be used as a synonym for 'bittersweet,' especially in contexts where there is a keen sense of regret or sadness alongside beauty or sweetness. It implies a deeper emotional resonance that evokes feelings of tenderness, sadness, or nostalgia.