discouraging
UK: dɪsˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ | US: dɪsˈkɜːrɪdʒɪŋ
adj. causing someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm
vt. (present participle of "discourage") attempting to dissuade or deter someone
The word "discouraging" originates from the Old French term descouragier, combining the prefix des- (meaning "opposite" or "away") and corage (meaning "heart" or "bravery"). Over time, corage evolved into the English "courage," while dis- replaced des- as the standard negative prefix in English. The suffix -ing transforms the verb "discourage" into an adjective, describing an action or state that undermines confidence. The progression reflects a logical shift from "removing bravery" to "causing demotivation."
The teacher’s harsh feedback was discouraging for the students.
Despite the discouraging weather, they continued their hike.
His discouraging tone made her reconsider the proposal.
The team found the lack of progress discouraging.
She ignored the discouraging comments and pursued her goal.