Which emotion is characterized by disappointment or grief?

Sadness is characterized by feelings of disappointment, grief, or loss. It often arises in response to adverse events in life, such as the loss of a loved one, a failed relationship, or unmet expectations. This emotion can manifest as a sense of hopelessness and a desire to withdraw from social interactions. In psychological terms, sadness is a normal response that helps individuals process their feelings and can lead to healing over time.

Other emotions listed, such as joy, anger, and disgust, represent distinctly different emotional experiences. Joy is associated with happiness and contentment, anger typically results from perceived injustices or frustrations, and disgust relates to aversion toward something viewed as offensive or unpleasant. Each of these emotions serves a unique psychological function that differs from how sadness enables individuals to cope with loss and disappointment.