malaise
Say it: muh-LAYZ /məˈleɪz/ · noun
What “malaise” means
A vague feeling that you are not quite right.
More precisely: A general feeling of discomfort, unease or low spirits that is hard to pin down.
Example: “A vague malaise hung over the office after the layoffs.”
When to use it
For a general feeling of discomfort or low spirits with no clear cause. More formal than feeling off.
Similar words
unease, discontent, ennui
Where it comes from
From French malaise, "ill ease, discomfort."
Quick check
Nothing specific is wrong, but all week you have felt vaguely uncomfortable and low. What is this feeling?
anxiety or malaise?
Show the answer
malaise
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