While both "sad" and "sorrowful" describe feelings of unhappiness, there's a subtle yet important distinction between them. "Sad" is a more common and generally milder word, used for everyday feelings of unhappiness. "Sorrowful," on the other hand, suggests a deeper, more intense, and often prolonged sadness, usually associated with a significant loss or event. Think of "sad" as a passing cloud, while "sorrowful" is a lingering storm.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Sad: "I felt sad when my favorite show ended." (Meaning: I experienced a mild feeling of unhappiness because the show concluded.)

• Sorrowful: "She was sorrowful after the death of her grandmother." (Meaning: She experienced a deep and prolonged sadness due to the significant loss of her grandmother.)

• Sad: "He was sad that he didn't get the job." (Meaning: He felt unhappy about not getting the job.)

• Sorrowful: "The family was sorrowful upon hearing the news of the accident." (Meaning: The family felt intense sadness because of the devastating accident.)

• Sad: "I'm feeling a bit sad today." (Meaning: I am experiencing mild unhappiness today.)

• Sorrowful: "He looked sorrowful as he watched the sunset, remembering his lost love." (Meaning: He felt deep sadness while remembering his lost love.)

Notice how "sorrowful" often implies a more formal and literary tone compared to "sad." While you can use "sad" in almost any situation, "sorrowful" often appears in more serious or emotional contexts.

Happy learning!