saturnine

Vocabulary Word

Definition

'Saturnine' is an adjective used to describe a person who is feeling or showing a gloomy or unexpectedly serious mood. It's like that colleague of yours who is always serious and moody.

Examples in Different Contexts

In literature, 'saturnine' characters often carry an air of mystery. An author might write, 'His saturnine gaze, always lost in thought, made others curious about his past.'

Practice Scenarios

Business

Scenario:

The new Director carries an aura of strict discipline. We'd certainly benefit from some levity during the team meetings.

Response:

While his saturnine nature might seem disheartening, it brings forth a sense of discipline in our work.

Political

Scenario:

His stern expressions reflect the serious state of affairs. Hopefully, his austerity does not dampen the citizens' spirit.

Response:

His saturnine demeanor is symbolic of the seriousness of our political climate I suppose.