Woe-is-me

The expression 'woe-is-me' is an exclamatory phrase used to lament one's misfortune or express deep sorrow, often with a tone of exaggeration or self-pity. It conveys a sense of helplessness and can be used humorously or in earnest, depending on the context. This phrase is often associated with tragic or sorrowful situations and highlights an individual's feeling of despair or distress.

Woe-is-me meaning with examples

• As she stared at her empty bank account after yet another unexpected expense, she sighed dramatically, 'Woe-is-me! Will I ever be financially secure?' This moment of levity in her otherwise serious circumstances allowed her to momentarily laugh at her plight.
• When he lost the job he had worked so hard to secure, he complained to his friends, 'Woe-is-me! What will I do without that paycheck?' His melodramatic manner entertained them, offering a necessary distraction from the reality of his situation.
• After the breakup, she shared her feelings on social media, posting a single line: 'Woe-is-me!' This garnered sympathy from her friends, who rallied around her, offering comfort and support during her emotional upheaval.
• In a lighthearted tone, he declared at the party, 'Woe-is-me! I have to eat another slice of cake!' His comedic delivery made everyone laugh, turning a trivial affliction into a shared joke.
• During the team meeting, she exclaimed, 'Woe-is-me! With all these deadlines looming, how will we ever get everything done?' Her dramatic flair sparked laughter among her colleagues, breaking the tension in the room.