Unfulfilled

Describing a state of not having achieved one's potential, desires, or expectations; a feeling of incompleteness, dissatisfaction, or regret due to a lack of accomplishment or satisfaction. It implies a longing for something more or different, a sense that something vital is missing in life. This can apply to various aspects, including personal aspirations, relationships, career goals, or even unmet basic needs. The degree of unfulfillment can range from a subtle sense of unease to a profound and debilitating sense of emptiness. It is a state marked by the absence of a sense of purpose, accomplishment, or genuine contentment. This feeling can be a catalyst for change, driving individuals to seek out new experiences, pursue new goals, and strive for a more satisfying and meaningful existence.

Unfulfilled meaning with examples

• Despite her successful career, she felt deeply unfulfilled. The demanding hours and financial rewards didn't compensate for the lack of genuine connection and creative expression she craved. This feeling gnawed at her, prompting her to finally leave her high-paying job and pursue her passion for painting, hoping to find a more rewarding path.
• The artist, haunted by unfulfilled potential, spent his days in a haze of regret. He had possessed the talent to create breathtaking masterpieces, but his fear of failure kept him from ever putting brush to canvas. He saw how his inaction had led to a life devoid of artistic fulfillment and had left him feeling empty inside.
• After their children left home, the couple found themselves wrestling with a sense of unfulfilled purpose. Their days, once filled with the responsibilities of parenthood, now felt empty and directionless. They realized that their relationship had taken a backseat and decided to rediscover what they once shared and to pursue shared goals to enrich each other’s lives.
• He looked back on his life with a profound sense of unfulfilled dreams. He’d always wanted to travel the world and experience different cultures, but a series of unfortunate events had consistently held him back. Now, nearing retirement, he felt the weight of his unachieved aspirations, leaving him with a constant feeling of discontentment.