Downhearted expresses a gentle, not extreme, feeling of sadness. Even though he was downhearted, he managed a small smile.
Pro Tip 2/3
Temporary Feeling
Use 'downhearted' to describe temporary discouragement, not chronic depression. She felt downhearted after the game, but her spirits soon lifted.
Pro Tip 3/3
Not Downbeat
'Downhearted' is about emotion, whereas 'downbeat' often refers to music or a subdued atmosphere. People often confuse downhearted with downbeat, but their meanings differ.