Translation guide
Expressing disappointment when expectations are not met.
Expressing that you feel disappointed or let down by a situation or outcome.
The most common and versatile way to say 'feel let down' or 'be disappointed'. Can be used for people, events, or results.
映画がつまらなくてがっかりした。
I felt let down because the movie was boring.
彼が来なくてがっかりした。
I was disappointed that he didn't come.
Expressing that someone's actions or words have disappointed you.
Literally 'feeling betrayed'. Used when someone you trusted lets you down. Stronger than がっかり.
友達に裏切られた気分だ。
I feel let down by my friend.
Expressing a light sense of disappointment in casual conversation.
Means 'a bit unfortunate/disappointing'. Softens the feeling and is very common in daily speech.
雨でピクニックが中止になって、ちょっと残念。
The picnic was canceled due to rain, so I'm a bit let down.
がっかり is the everyday word for disappointment. 失望 is stronger and often implies a loss of faith or hope, used in more serious contexts.
テストの点が悪くてがっかりした。
I was disappointed with my test score.
政治家の汚職に失望した。
I was disillusioned by the politician's corruption.
Literally 'expectation-miss'. Emphasizes that something didn't live up to expectations. Slightly more formal.
新作は期待外れだった。
The new work was a letdown.
Stronger word for 'disappointed', often used for serious letdowns or disillusionment.
彼の行動に失望した。
I was disappointed in his behavior.
Passive form of がっかりする, emphasizing that someone caused your disappointment.
彼の態度にがっかりさせられた。
I was let down by his attitude.
Means 'even though I was looking forward to it'. Implies disappointment without directly stating it.
期待してたのに、売り切れだった。
I was looking forward to it, but it was sold out. (I feel let down.)