discourage
verb (used with object)
to deprive of courage, hope, or confidence; dishearten; dispirit.
was discouraging
-
past progressiveof discourage.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Our 40,000 employees that we have are more committed, more motivated, because load-shedding really was discouraging all of us, morale was very low,” says Daphne Mokwena, Eskom’s national spokesperson.
From BBC ● Aug. 6, 2024
While that was discouraging, I was heartened to read good news.
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 5, 2024
Soon after Star Garden reopened, dancers told The Times that drink prices had ratcheted up, the bar had gone cashless and removed its ATM and management was discouraging customers from tipping with cash.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 26, 2024
Two sources said the escalation of tensions in the Black Sea was likely to impact Russia’s export numbers, and was discouraging shipping companies from bringing vessels to Russian ports, especially newer ships that carry more.
From Reuters ● Aug. 8, 2023
This was discouraging, since the demands on his attention elsewhere were multiplying.
From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik
