If you’re writing a dystopian novel, this post will help you with using the right words to describe a dystopian setting. Continue reading to learn about 10 words that can be used to describe a world that has undergone destruction.
1. Desolate
Definition
Empty, barren; exhibiting no signs of life or activity.
Examples
“The city was desolate, with crumbling buildings and empty streets.”
“The desolate landscape stretched out as far as the eye could see, with nothing but dust and rocks.”
How it Adds Description
The word desolate adds a sense of emptiness and abandonment to a dystopian novel. It creates a visual image of a barren, uninhabitable landscape, conveying a sense of hopelessness and despair for the characters living in such harsh conditions. It provides a stark contrast to any moments of hope or positivity.
2. Gloomy
Definition
dismal, depressing; lacking any cheer
Examples
“Their gloomy attitudes made it hard to stay positive.”
“The sky was gloomy as the rain began to pour down upon our wretched souls.”
How It Adds Description
The word “gloomy” adds a sense of sadness and hopelessness to a dystopian novel. It adds a sense of worry and discomfort, as the characters may feel as though they are being watched or followed, or that something bad is about to happen. It can also describe moods or surroundings, creating a sense of despair.
3. Corroded
Definition
Eaten away, worn thin; decayed, deteriorated.
Examples
“The corroded metal on the old building reflected the years of neglect it had experienced.”
“The pipes in the building were corroded, making it difficult to get clean drinking water while we sheltered.”
How It Adds Description
The word “corroded” shows objects or structures that have been damaged by corrosion giving them a sense of neglect and abandonment. It can add a sense of danger and instability to the living conditions of characters forced into buildings that are falling apart. It highlights the lack of resources available for repairs, providing contrast to moments of progress or development.
4. Barren
Definition
Unproductive, empty; Lacking in vegetation or life.
Examples
“The barren wasteland stretched out as far as the eye could see.”
“The land was barren, making it impossible for the increasingly malnourished survivors to find food.”
How It Adds Description
The word “barren” adds a sense of emptiness and lack of resources to a dystopian novel. It creates a visual image of a landscape that is devoid of life or growth, with no signs of vegetation or greenery. It indicates hopelessness and impending doom in the novel, emphasizing the misery of the characters’ situation and the potential loss of life.
5. Dire
Definition
Vital, critical; posing a sense of danger.
Examples
“The dire situation they found themselves in made it hard to keep going, but they had no choice.”
“The warning from the government was dire, terrifying the citizens listening to the broadcast.”
How It Adds Description
The word “dire” implies that the characters are in a state of emergency and that the stakes are high. This can create a sense of tension and unease for the reader, making them feel invested in the story and the characters’ fate. It can also underscore the characters’ struggles, making it clear that they are facing life-threatening situations.
6. Grim
Definition
Stark, dour; of sinister character.
Examples
“The grim outlook for the future made it hard to stay positive.”
“The expression on the leader’s face was grim, making it clear that he was expecting the worst.”
How It Adds Description
The word “grim” creates a sense of danger looming in the background. This can convey a sense of unease and fear for the characters living in this environment, as they may feel like they are constantly at risk or in danger. It can also be used to underline the oppressive nature of the government or society, such as discussing their grim policies or acts against the people.
7. Tainted
Definition
Contaminated, corrupted; having a feeling of impurity or danger.
Examples
“The water was tainted with chemicals, making it unsafe to drink.”
“The radical new government’s reputation was quickly tainted by their actions.”
How It Adds Description
The word “tainted” can be used to describe something that is contaminated or corrupted, making it unsafe or unhealthy for the characters to use or consume. The characters may be unsure if it is safe for them to consume or use something. It might also be used to show that the government or leadership is not providing them with the resources they need, leading to mistrust and fear.
8. Drab
Definition
Plain, uninteresting; lacking color or life.
Examples
“The drab buildings made the city feel lifeless despite the people who remained after the collapse.”
“The clothing worn by the soldiers was drab in style and color, making it difficult to tell one from another.”
How It Adds Description
The word “drab” reflects an image of dull, plain, and uninteresting environments. In a dystopian setting, it can show a lack of creativity or freedom among people forced to conform, taking away their individuality. It can also be used to reflect a loss of color and life in formerly vibrant cities.
9. Oppressive
Definition
Overwhelmed, suppressed; causing discomfort or hardship.
Examples
“The oppressive heat from the sun’s increased proximity made it hard to breathe.”
“The government’s oppressive rule made it impossible for citizens to speak out against them.”
How It Adds Description
The word “oppressive” adds a sense of control and domination, such as when characters are under the rule of a government or society that is exerting its power over them. In a dystopian setting, it can also demonstrate a lack of freedom or rights available to the characters, further emphasizing the futility of their situation.
10. Bleak
Definition
Lacking hope, desolation; a gloomy atmosphere.
Examples
“The bleak outlook of what the future held for the survivors made it hard to keep going.”
“The landscape was bleak, offering no signs of life after the alien attack.”
How It Adds Description
The word “bleak” highlights a lack of resources or support available to the characters, further emphasizing the horrors of their situation. It can also indicate a sense of hopelessness in the future, suggesting that things may not get better for the characters and increasing their fears of what will become of them in their dystopian nightmare.