A mood characterized by deep, long-lasting sadness.

A mood characterized by deep, long-lasting sadness.

• A. Joy
• B. Melancholy
• C. Gloom
• D. Sadness

Answer: (B)

Distinguishing a lasting, somber mood from a fleeting feeling is what this item tests. Melancholy conveys a deep, lingering sadness with a contemplative or wistful edge, fitting a mood rather than a momentary emotion and implying duration. Joy is the opposite of sadness, so it doesn’t fit. Sadness is too broad and can be temporary, not necessarily long-lasting. Gloom suggests dreariness or an atmosphere of darkness, not the sustained personal emotional state implied by a mood. So melancholy is the best fit for a mood characterized by deep, long-lasting sadness.

Distinguishing a lasting, somber mood from a fleeting feeling is what this item tests. Melancholy conveys a deep, lingering sadness with a contemplative or wistful edge, fitting a mood rather than a momentary emotion and implying duration. Joy is the opposite of sadness, so it doesn’t fit. Sadness is too broad and can be temporary, not necessarily long-lasting. Gloom suggests dreariness or an atmosphere of darkness, not the sustained personal emotional state implied by a mood. So melancholy is the best fit for a mood characterized by deep, long-lasting sadness.