Malaise
hardNegative tonema-LAYZ
noun
Definition
A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease
Memory hook
MAL-AISE: Bad (MAL) ease -- feeling unwell and uncomfortable, a vague sickness.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“A general malaise spread through the office during flu season.”
“The economic malaise affected consumer confidence.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“A general ______ spread through the office during flu season.”
Show answer
malaise
Categories
GRE Tip
Malaise is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "unease" or "discomfort" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "wellness".
Related GRE Words
lassitude
weariness or lack of energy
torpor
A state of physical or mental inactivity; lethargy
ennui
A feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement
apathy
Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
apprehension
Anxiety or fear that something bad or unpleasant will happen
debilitate
To make weak or feeble; to impair the strength of
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